Is it permissible to offer condolences to the People of the Book (Dhimmi)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Funerals
Primary text
Regarding condolences for the People of the Book, Imam Ahmad (may Allah have mercy on him) held a position of reservation, which is analogous to the ruling on visiting them when they are ill. There are two narrations concerning this issue. The first narration indicates that just as we do not visit them, we do not offer condolences, based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) statement: "Do not initiate greetings to them with Salam." This reasoning suggests a parallel prohibition in meaning for condolences.
Supporting text
The second narration permits visiting them, which implies permitting condolences. This is supported by the Hadith where the Prophet (peace be upon him) visited a Jewish boy who was ill, commanded him to obey his father, and upon the boy accepting Islam, the Prophet praised Allah for saving him from the Fire. This hadith was narrated by Al-Bukhari.