Bikur cholim, "visiting the sick," in Hebrew, is a term encompassing a wide range of activities performed by an individual or a group to provide comfort and support to people who are ill, homebound, isolated and/or otherwise in distress.
The act of bikur cholim is a mitzvah, a moral and spiritual obligation incumbent upon all Jews to perform. The Torah tells us that human beings are created in the image of G‑d and instructs us to aspire to be like G‑d by emulating His ways. G‑d visits Avraham while he was recuperating after being circumcised (Genesis 17:26-18:1). The Talmud teaches us that "As He visited the sick, so shall you visit the sick…"
The Talmud makes references to scholars and disciples making visits to the sick. The local Bikur Cholim Society was one of the principle institutions established by Jewish communities, the first one formed at the time of the Middle Ages.
Bikur cholim is an essential quality of good interpersonal relationships. It reflects the primary Biblical value, "And you shall love your fellow as yourself" (Leviticus 19:18). By fulfilling this role, we deeply enrich both our lives and the lives of those we visit. When we visit we attain a spiritual dimension that goes well beyond a simple personal expression of caring and links us with generations past, present and future. Indeed, we are linked not only to the entire Jewish people, but to all humanity, as well, emulating the G‑dly attributes of compassion and lovingkindness.
The Talmud makes references to scholars and disciples making visits to the sick. The local Bikur Cholim Society was one of the principle institutions established by Jewish communities, the first one formed at the time of the Middle Ages. Bikur cholim groups continue to exist to this day, in all parts of the world, with people making the commitment to care for one another, and bring the strength of community and connection of Jewish heritage to the bedside.
Why is bikur cholim important?
Because people need to feel connected to the community especially when they are ill or homebound.
Because bringing the community to the bedside lifts the spirit of those who may feel forgotten.
Because studies have shown that social contact and support positively influences those needing and receiving comfort.
Because visiting and caring activities help build community and character.
Because we are acting in a G‑dly way when we visit.
