Al-Arbaʿin for Doctors

Empathy & compassion

Hadith 6

Anas Bin Malik E narrated that the Messenger of Allah r

said, “ None of you [truly] believes until he wishes for his
brother what he wishes for himself.” (Bukhari 13)
Both the terms means ‘sympathetic pity’ and concern
for the sufferings or misfortunes of others. It is best per-
ceived by placing oneself in another person's situation. When
this happens one will automatically desire the best for the
patient and his family as he would do so for himself. One of
the great benefits will be development of a strong doctor-
patient relationship by this concept. When the family of the
patient is confronted with a confusing situation one can safe-
ly conclude to them by saying, “I would take this course of
action if I were in your place”. This one line has helped so
many of my patients especially those of poor educational
background as they have problems in comprehending the dif-
ficult scenarios.
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