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in category Fiqh (Jurisprudence)

Is it permitted in Islam for a man to shake hands with a woman?

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In a Nutshell: Shaking hands between men and women who are not mahram without desire is permitted by some jurists - most however prohibit the practice.

Evidences

Anas bin Malik said:

"Any of the female slaves of Medina could take hold of the hand of Allah's Messenger (saw) and take him wherever she wished." (Sahih al-Bukhari)

Anas bin Malik said:

“If a female slave among the people of Medinah were to take the hand of the Messenger of Allah (saw), he would not take his hand away from hers until she had taken him wherever she wanted in Medinah so that her needs may be met.” (Ibn Majah, Ahmed)

The Messenger of Allah (saw) used to visit Umm Haram, daughter of Milhan. She was the wife of Ubada bin Samit, One day the Messenger of Allah (saw) paid her a visit. She entertained him with food and then sat down to rub his head. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih al-Muslim)

Abu Musa al-Ashari (ra) whilst on Hajj went to a woman of al-Qais who removed lice from his head (Sahih al-Bukhari)

Ibrahim al-Nikhae said:

"I met a woman and I intended to shake my hands with her. I placed my hand over the cloth and she took of her niqab, She was one of the woman of my area who became middle aged. I shook my hand with her and I didn't have anything on my hand." (حلية الأولياء 2/442)

Aisha (ra) said:

"The Prophet's hands never touched those of a woman" (Sahih al-Muslim and Sahih al-Bukhari).

The Messenger of Allah (saw) said:

“For one of you to be stabbed in the head with an iron needle is better for him than that he should touch a woman who is not permissible for him.” (Tabarani)

The Messenger of Allah (saw) said:

"If anyone of you to be stabbed by iron needle on its head its dearer to me than your head be washed off by a woman who is not mahram to you." (Sahih al-Bukhari, Muslim)

The Messenger of Allaah (saw) said:

“I do not shake hands with women.” (Nisa’i)


Is it permitted for a man to shake hands with a woman?

Those prohibiting shaking of hands argue instances where hadiths narrate the messenger shook hands with women are specific to him. Qadhi Iyaz refuted such claims by arguing khasais (those things which are specific to only prophet) cannot be proven unless there is a clear proof for it, as the general principle established from texts is all his actions can be emulated by his ummah.

Furthermore narrations that companions engaged in such acts counter such claims.

  • Umar ibn al-Khattab shook hands with women when they came to pledge their allegiance to him.
  • Abu Bakr shook hands with an old woman during his caliphate.
  • Bukhari reported the Prophet (saw) used to allow Um Haram to comb his hair.

Narrations that appear to prohibit touching a non-mahram use the term mass (touch) to metaphorically refer to sexual acts so do Not apply to the issue of shaking hands.


FAQs: Shaking Hands Between Men and Women in Islam

  • Is shaking hands between men and women generally allowed in Islam? The majority of Islamic scholars consider shaking hands between non-mahram men and women (those who could potentially marry) as impermissible. This is based on interpretations of Quranic verses and Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) emphasizing modest interactions and avoiding unnecessary physical contact between unrelated genders.

  • Why is this the primary ruling? The aim is to safeguard against potential fitnah (temptation or discord) and to maintain respectful boundaries between genders, especially outside of familial relationships.

  • Are there any exceptions? A minority of scholars may allow handshake in specific limited contexts (necessity, formal business settings when refusing would cause significant disturbance), but this view is less common.

  • I'm in a situation where a woman offers a handshake. How do I decline politely? You could try:

    • A slight bow of the head and a kind smile.
    • Placing your hand over your heart with a respectful greeting like "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you).
    • Briefly explaining your religious reservations in a non-judgmental way (e.g., "My faith guides me to avoid physical contact with the opposite gender. I hope you understand.")
  • Doesn't this seem outdated or harsh? The intention is not to disrespect or isolate women. It's a matter of adhering to religious principles of modesty. Sensitivity and mutual understanding from all parties can promote more positive interactions that honor differing practices.


Conclusion - Shaking Hands in Islam

Shaking hands between men and women who are not mahram without desire is permitted by some jurists - most however prohibit the practice.


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