Fatwa: # 14904
Category: Character & Morals
Country: South Africa
Date: 21st February 2007

Title

Can a muslim say 'bless you' to a non-muslim when he sneezes?

Question

Can a muslim say 'bless you' to a non-muslim when he sneezes?

Answer

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

No, he cannot utter such a meaningless statement even to a Muslim. In response to a non-Muslim sneezing, he should remain silent. If he wishes, he may say “Hadaakallah” (May Allah guide you”.

And Allah knows best

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[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]