The Islamic Method of Consoling the Bereaved

The questioner : Now, what is the Islamic method of consoling the bereaved? May Allah reward you, Shaykh Muhammad?

The Shaykh : First, you should know that gathering for consolation is not prescribed.

The questioner : It is not prescribed, for example, at the grave or consoling the bereaved.

The Shaykh : Second, consolation consists of saying appropriate words. Among these is saying what the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said to one of his daughters: "Be patient and seek reward, O my brother." From this, you can say, if you see him crying: "O my brother, do not cry like women; you are a man, you must bear it," and the like. Every person is consoled according to his condition. Some people are not struck with a severe loss, and some are not struck with a severe loss, and for every condition there is a suitable response.