What is the wisdom behind the format by which Muslims greet one another, such as shaking hands?
It is narrated in the Sunan Abu Dawood that Al Barraa reported that the Prophet Mohammed said: “Two Muslims will not meet and shake hands without having their sins forgiven (by Allah) before they depart.”
The purpose of the Prophet emphasising the act of shaking hands was to indicate a strength of connection embodied firstly by hearts and demonstrated by the act. What this shows is how having pure hearts to one another brings divine forgiveness from Allah. Similar to this is the act of smiling and giving gifts, for, as Ataa bin Abdullah Al Kharasani relates, the Prophet Mohammed said: “Shake hands, for this will dispel rancour, and exchange gifts and love one another, for this will dispel hatred.”
The Prophet Mohammed said: “The Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand Muslims are safe.” Does this apply to non-Muslims as well?
Islam and the Prophet Mohammed came as a mercy to all of mankind. The unfortunate misinterpretation of Islam by those given to follow their egotistical desires has led to much misunderstanding among Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
Any spiritual message can be co-opted by an ego, if we are not true in what we claim.
The Quran clearly instructs those who believe to be embodiments of compassion, entailing the treating well not just of those who are not Muslims but the entirety of creation, and this is borne witness to by the Prophetic example of kindness and generosity to all.
As the Quran says: “The true servants of the Merciful are those who walk humbly on the earth, and who, when the foolish address them, reply ‘Peace’.”
It is hoped that in such a spirit of mercy, humility and peace, Muslims can be bringers of healing and compassion in an increasingly polarised world.
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