Talbina in times of grief: what does the Sunnah say?
When someone loses a loved one, you look for ways to be there for them. Bringing a warm meal is one of the oldest forms of comfort. In the Sunnah, one dish has a special place: talbina.
What does the Sunnah say about talbina in times of grief?
Sahih al-Bukhari contains the narration of Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her). When someone in her family passed away and the women left after the mourning, she would have a pot of talbina cooked. She said she had heard the Prophet ﷺ say:
“Talbina soothes the heart of the sick person and takes away some of his grief.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
Aisha therefore recommended talbina in two situations: illness and mourning.
Bringing talbina to a grieving family
In many families it is a kind gesture to bring food to a family in mourning, so they do not have to worry about cooking in those first days. Talbina fits this well:
- Simple: ready in about 10 minutes.
- Soft and warm: easy to eat, even with little appetite.
- Meaningful: you follow a Sunnah and show you are thinking of them.
How to make talbina for a grieving family
For about 4 bowls you need:
- 120 g Talbinah barley flour
- 1 litre of milk (or half milk, half water)
- Honey and dates to taste
Heat the milk over low heat, slowly stir in the barley flour and simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until thick. Sweeten with honey and add some dates. Bring it warm in a closed pan, or give the pouch of barley flour with our recipe so the family can make it whenever suits them.
A gesture that stays
Words often fall short in times of loss. A bowl of talbina says: I am thinking of you. Want to give someone talbina? You can order it online.
