Abu Dawood says: I went to Sayyiduna Anas bin Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) and said: O Abu Hamzah! The house is far, but we really like to visit you for your well-being. He raised his head and said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) say: Whoever goes to visit a sick person enters into mercy, and when he sits with the patient, mercy envelops him. I said: O Messenger of Allah! This reward is for the healthy visitor; what is the reward for the sick person? He (peace and blessings be upon him) said: His sins are forgiven.