“Bikur Cholim”: To See How You Can Help
Question
Mrs. Priva Newman
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Answers
Bikur cholim is the mitzvah of visiting the sick. The word “bikur” means visit and “cholim” means sick. It is considered to be a great mitzvah and one that carries with it tremendous spiritual reward.
It is interesting to note that that root word for “bikur” actually means “”to inspect” or “to check on”.
Based on this, the mitzvah is not merely to show up, but to check with the ailing person about what can be done to help with the person’s needs – food, books, medication, prayer, etc.
Best wishes from the AskTheRabbi.org Team