The ruling on kissing between men upon meeting and greeting

Question:
Is it permissible for a man to kiss another man upon meeting—that is, upon greeting? And are there any hadiths regarding the prohibition of this? I ask for clarification, even though this custom has become widespread among people.

Answer:
Anas (may Allah be pleased with him): "The Companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), when they met, would shake hands, and when they returned from a journey, they would embrace." So, the recommended practice (sunnah) is to embrace upon returning from a journey or a long absence. As for kissing, there is no need for it; shaking hands is sufficient. If he kisses him between the eyes or on the head, the matter is easier; because it was narrated from the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) that he kissed Ja'far between the eyes when he returned from Abyssinia—Ja'far ibn Abi Talib—so the matter is thus. And it was narrated from him (peace and blessings be upon him) that some of the Companions kissed his hand and his foot when he returned from some of his journeys.
But leaving that is better, and not making it a habit; rather, shaking hands is sufficient. This is the better course. And if they embrace upon returning from a journey, there is nothing wrong with that. And if he kisses between the eyes or on the head, there is nothing wrong with it, if Allah wills. Yes, but leaving that and being content with embracing is more appropriate.