Shaking Hands
Question :

In some societies men and women usually shake hands at work and outside work when they are introduced. Sometimes they even kiss each other or hug each other. This is considered normal practice and if a Muslim does not do it he is seen as anti-social.
In such a situation, may a Muslim man shake hands, kiss or hug a Non-Mahram woman without lust?

Answer :

It is not permissible to do so. Muslims are obligated to implement the teachings of their religion in a respectful and calm way so others may understand their religious duties gradually.

Mixed Swimming Pool
Question :

Is it permissible for a man to attend mixed-gender swimming pools, particularly if each individual is swimming in separated tracks back and forth?

Answer :

Swimming for men, in itself, is permissible; however, these places are one of the reasons of falling into committing sins usually, unless the individual attends during the times when women do not attend.

Mixed Swimming Pool
Question :

I would kindly like to know your verdict on going to a mixed gender swimming pool because my Marja doesn't allow it based on an obligatory precaution.

Answer :

Visiting such places is usually associated with prohibited acts like looking at women with prohibited desire. There are many negative effects on adults, as well as on children and youths.
"Whosoever keeps his duty to Allah, Allah will appoint a way out for him". Quran 65:2)

Handshaking
Question :

Is it permissible for me to shake hands with the opposite gender?

Answer :

Handshaking that involves skin contact with a person of opposite sex is prohibited. One can do so with gloves to prevent skin contact.
It is best to apologize for not doing such an action by stating that our religion does not allow it.
Some people who do not understand the religion or do not believe in it might think that this law is disrespectful to women, but this false notion originates from being distanced from the environment of Muslims and not knowing the details of their religion, since the prohibition of hand-shaking is not limited to men but it also includes women as well as they are not permitted to shake men’s hands. It is purely a legislation that could mean – based on our understanding – placing borders between men and women to protect their chasteness and to help in preventing them from falling into prohibited acts.

Not Making Skin Contact
Question :

If I don't make skin contact with a woman, can I put my hand around her coat?

Answer :

If it is without pleasure, then it is permissible. Otherwise, it is not permissible.

Treating Women
Question :

As a doctor, I have to treat women. What rules must I follow to ensure I do not do anything forbidden?

Answer :

You are permitted to treat female patient who comes to you for treatment. You should avoid direct skin contact, by wearing gloves, for example. Also, you should avoid looking at them with lust.

Invisible Barrier
Question :

There is a cream that when applied onto the hand creates an invisible barrier on the hand and water just rolls off. Is it permissible to shake women's hands when this cream is applied seeing as there is a barrier over the skin?

Answer :

If there is indeed a barrier created by such a cream, it will be permissible to shake hands in the mentioned scenario, as long as it does not involve another prohibition, like causing desire or humiliation or the like.

Ear Piercing
Question :

Is it allowed for a baligh girl to get ear piercing from a man that is non-mahram?

Answer :

No, it is not permissible, as the ear of a religiously defined adult (baligh) girl cannot be exposed to the non-mahram male.