Author: Dr. Muhammad Zia-ur-Rahman Al-Azmi رحمه الله
Visiting a Christian or any other disbeliever—if they are ill—does not fall under the general category of a social visit; rather, it is considered a form of 'ʿiyādah' (visiting the sick), because such visits are generally repeated and carried out with the intention of comfort and well-wishing.
① If there is a beneficial purpose—such as going with the intention to invite them to Islam—then this is undoubtedly an act of goodness.
② Even if there is no clear benefit, it is still permissible to visit them when they are sick.
③ If there is another valid reason for the visit—such as the individual being a relative, neighbor, or any similar connection—then visiting them is allowed without issue.
✘ However, if there is no valid reason or purpose, then it is better not to visit the non-Muslim patient.
[Ibn ʿUthaymīn: Nūr ʿala al-Darb: 5/21]
❖ Ruling on Visiting a Christian or Any Other Disbeliever
Visiting a Christian or any other disbeliever—if they are ill—does not fall under the general category of a social visit; rather, it is considered a form of 'ʿiyādah' (visiting the sick), because such visits are generally repeated and carried out with the intention of comfort and well-wishing.
✔ When is Visiting Permissible or Recommended?
① If there is a beneficial purpose—such as going with the intention to invite them to Islam—then this is undoubtedly an act of goodness.
② Even if there is no clear benefit, it is still permissible to visit them when they are sick.
③ If there is another valid reason for the visit—such as the individual being a relative, neighbor, or any similar connection—then visiting them is allowed without issue.
✘ However, if there is no valid reason or purpose, then it is better not to visit the non-Muslim patient.
[Ibn ʿUthaymīn: Nūr ʿala al-Darb: 5/21]
