Q. Can one comply properly with the mitzva of Bikur Cholim by zooming contact with a patient, either by contacting him by phone or computer. Besides, there is so much time being saved when one does not have to be there in person and therefore so many more people can be visited. Is that not a better option?
A. Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that it is in principle a correct act to do if it makes the patient feel better and it is at least part of the most important mitzva of Bikur Cholim.
However, the Rov added, the proper way to comply with this greatest of mitzvos, is only by personal contact. Firstly, because a most important part of this great deed, is praying for the ill, and the Shechina is present at the head of that particular bed.
Additionally, one has to identify and feel the pain and the needs of the ill, to be able to share with and provide true comfort, right advice and the much needed empathy. No zooming can replace the link and relationship created by direct eye contact.
Furthermore, to really give the desired wishes and meaningful brochos for Refuah Shleima, one has to truly feel the pain and suffering of the patient, as if it was one's own, and for that to be truly achieved, one has to be there.
For all the above reasons you truly need to be present
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Dovid Pam, Horav Aharon Miller and Horav Chanoch Ehrentreu Shlit'a
Important Numbers
