What is the ruling on one who does not greet those he does not know, on the grounds that they are unknown to him?

The questioner : Some of the young men do not greet those they do not know, and when we ask them about their action, they say, "This person is unknown to me, and he might be an innovator..."

The Shaykh : This is due to their ignorance. The Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) said: except for one whom you know is not a Muslim. A Muslim should greet him, and it is not permissible to boycott him, except for those who openly commit sins, for they are to be boycotted if there is a benefit in boycotting them. However, if boycotting them leads to their persisting in their sins and persisting in their hatred of the people of truth and those who call to the truth, then it is not permissible to boycott them, because boycotting is a remedy; if it is beneficial, do it, and if it is not beneficial, do not do it.