Comforting mourners on Tishah b'Av

Hi,

One may not comfort mourners on the night of Tisha b'Av or on Tisha b'Av morning, since one may not offer words of comfort, beyond the "HaMakom yinachem" formula. However, one who will not be able to visit from midday on Tisha b'Av until the end of shivah should visit the mourner earlier on Tisha b'Av; the visit will have value even without being able to offer words of comfort.

(Rav Moshe Feinstein, Igrot Moshe Orach Chaim 5:20:22)

חג אורים שמח,
Mordechai

The mitzvah of comforting mourners

Hi,

The mitzvah of comforting mourners is not limited to reciting the "HaMakom yinachem" formula; rather, one is required to speak to the mourners and settle their minds.

(Rav Moshe Feinstein, Igrot Moshe Orach Chaim 5:20:21)

חג אורים שמח,
Mordechai

Comforting mourners by telephone

Hi,

The mitzvah of comforting the mourner [nichum aveilim] incorporates three components:
1) Benefiting the mourner;
2) Honouring the mourner;
3) Visiting the place of the deceased.

One who telephones rather than visits does fulfill the first, but not the latter two. Further, one can cause greater benefit by visiting in person. Therefore, calling is viewed as less than ideal, although one does fulfill aspects of the mitzvah.

(R' Moshe Feinstein, Igrot Moshe Orach Chaim 4:40:11)

Have a good day,
Mordechai