was present, except al-Abbas ibn Abd al-Muttalib.” (1) They said: This indicates that he disliked what they had done. Laḍūd refers to the medicine administered to a sick person by being poured into the side of his mouth.
- When Abu Bakr, may Allah be pleased with him, fell ill and was told, “Shall we call a physician for you?” he replied, “The Physician has already seen me, and He said: ‘I do whatever I will.’” Abu Bakr was the best of this nation after its Prophet, and he is an example and an imam.
Other scholars said instead that seeking treatment is recommended, for the following reasons:
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The Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, instructed people to do so.
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It is among the beneficial means.
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A person benefits from his time—especially the believer who makes the most of his opportunities, for every hour that passes benefits him.
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A sick person is often distressed and unable to carry out the acts of obedience he ought to perform. But when Allah restores him to health, his heart is relieved, his spirits are lifted, and he performs the acts of worship he ought to perform. Treatment, then, is sought as a means to another end, and is therefore recommended.
Other scholars said: If the effectiveness of a treatment is known, or is considered likely on the basis of experience, then it is preferable. But if it involves risk, then refraining from it is preferable, because if it involves risk, it may cause him harm,