A man greeting a woman

Q 5: Is it permissible for my brother to shake hands with my wife or to ask her about her health; (Part No. 17; Page No. 73) this being done in my presence or the presence of my maternal or paternal uncle?

A: There is no problem if a man greets a non-Mahram woman (not a spouse or an unmarriageable relative) with Salam (Islamic greeting of peace) provided that she is wearing Hijab (veil) and this happens in the presence of a Mahram (spouse or permanently unmarriageable relative). He is not, however, allowed to shake hands with her. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.