The Prohibition of Shaking Hands with a Non-Mahram Woman

Question:
From Eritrea, a message sent by the listener Isma'il Ali Sulayman, asking several questions. In one of them, he says: We have many customs, among which is men shaking hands with women who are not related to us by kinship or mahram status. We ask you to clarify the ruling on this? May Allah reward you with good.

Answer:
It is not permissible for a non-mahram man to shake hands with a woman; because of the saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him): And Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: "By Allah, 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." This indicates that he (peace and blessings be upon him) did not shake hands with women, so it is not permissible to shake hands with them; because it is a fitnah (trial, discord or temptation). Handshaking may lead to fitnah, so it is not permissible except if she is a mahram: such as his sister, his aunt, or his wife, there is no harm.
As for a non-mahram woman, even if she is his cousin's daughter, or his brother's wife, or his uncle's wife, she is a non-mahram. He has no right to shake her hand. He should only greet her: How are you? How are you doing? Peace be upon you, and upon you be peace. How are your children? Good words without handshaking, yes.

The presenter: May Allah reward you with good, and may He do you good.