𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻'𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 (359)

The Guideline for Physical Contact and Kissing Between Opposite-Gender Relatives Sheikh Sulayman Ar-Ruhaili hafidahullah states: He said: “It is also forbidden to touch any woman other than one's wife or concubine out of desire.” What is meant here is a woman who is among his maḥārim (those permanently unlawful to marry, such as a sister or aunt). It is permissible for him to touch her—i.e., for his skin to come into contact with hers—in outward and customary matters, such as shaking hands, provided it is without desire. It is permissible for him to kiss his sister on the forehead or even on the cheek if this is customary and done without desire. However, kissing on the mouth is strictly prohibited—no, no, and no—even if some people have made it a habit. A man is not permitted to kiss any of his maḥārim on the mouth or near it. However, if he kisses her on the forehead out of respect or kisses her hand if she is elderly, this is permissible. It becomes prohibited if done with desire, and this is even more strictly forbidden than touching non-maḥārim women (those one may lawfully marry). Thus, whoever knows of himself that touching a maḥram would stir desire, it becomes absolutely forbidden for him to do so in any case. But for one who does not find this tendency in himself, touching without desire is permissible, while touching with desire remains forbidden—yes.