to cheer him up by saying something like, “Ma sha’ Allah (as Allah has willed), you are in a good state today,” or similar words. It is not required to tell him, “You are completely well,” for he may actually be in a worse condition than yesterday. Instead, say, “You are in a good state today,” because every situation the believer faces is good: if hardship befalls him, it is good for him, and if ease comes to him, it is likewise good for him. So say, “Today you are well—praise be to Allah,” and other expressions that bring joy to his heart.

The appointed term of life is fixed; if this illness coincides with his destined end, he will die, and if any span of this world remains for him, he will continue to live.

One should also remind him of repentance, but not in a blunt manner, for he may become unsettled and think, “If my illness were not serious, he would not have urged me to repent.” Rather, begin by mentioning verses and hadiths that extol those who repent, so the patient remembers them. He should likewise be reminded about making a bequest, yet without saying, “Make a will, for your end is near,” because that would distress him. Instead, relate relevant stories, such as: “So-and-so once had a debt; he was a prudent man and would instruct his family to settle it after his death,” and the like—phrases that will not alarm him.

The scholars have also stated that if the visitor notices the patient wishing for a recitation of ruqya, he should recite over him, lightly blowing, using the supplications reported from the Prophet ﷺ, such as: “Remove the affliction, Lord of mankind, and cure—You are the Healer; there is no cure but Your cure—a cure that leaves no illness behind,” and his words: “Our Lord is Allah Who is in the heaven…"