The Ruling on Shaking Hands with a Non-Mahram Woman

Question:
He also has a third question, saying: If a man shakes hands with a woman who is not permissible for him to marry, such as his paternal cousin or his maternal cousin, or the like, has he committed one of the major sins, even if he had no intention and only a good, pure intent?

Answer:
It is not permissible for a Muslim to shake hands with a non-mahram woman, whether she is his paternal cousin, his maternal cousin, or anyone else; because shaking hands is worse than looking, and it may lead to severe consequences. It is established from him (peace and blessings be upon him) that he said, "I do not shake hands with women," when a woman extended her hand to him. He said, "I do not shake hands with women." And Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said, "The hand of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) never touched the hand of a woman. He only took their pledge of allegiance through words." Therefore, shaking hands with women who are not mahram is not permissible, even if the woman is an old woman, even if there is no barrier, and even if there is a barrier; he has no right to shake hands. Rather, he should apologize and say that this is not permissible. He should greet them with words, such as his paternal cousins, maternal cousins, and neighbors; he should greet them with words and ask about their conditions with words. As for shaking hands, it is obligatory to refrain from it, and to inform them of this so that they may excuse him in that matter. The right of Allah is greater, and the obligatory is above the satisfaction of everyone. Yes.