Ruling on shaking hands

Q 5: Is it permissible when two persons meet anywhere to shake hands, as mentioned in the Hadith narrated by Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) in Durrat-ul-Nasihin [The Gem of the Preachers]?

A: It was reported by Al-Bukhari in his Sahih from `Amr ibn `Asim from Hammam on the authority of Qatadah that he asked Anas, "Was it a custom of the Companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) to shake hands with one another?" He said, "Yes." It was reported by Abu Dawud in his Sunan on the authority of Al-Bara' ibn `Azib that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) stated, If two Muslims meet, shake hands, praise Allah and ask for His Forgiveness, they will be forgiven. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.