Understanding Religious Practices: Why Some Faiths Avoid Handshakes

Introduction: The Meaning Behind Handshakes and Religious Customs

Social greetings like handshakes are common in many cultures, symbolizing trust, respect, and goodwill. However, for followers of certain religions, physical contact-including handshakes-may be discouraged or outright prohibited, especially between men and women who are not related. This practice is rooted in religious beliefs about modesty, purity, and the boundaries of interpersonal relationships. Understanding these customs is essential for fostering respect, tolerance, and effective communication in diverse settings.

Islam: The Prohibition of Handshakes Between Non-Related Men and Women

Islamic teachings generally prohibit physical contact-including handshakes-between men and women who are not related by blood or marriage. This is based on principles of modesty and the protection of personal boundaries. The Prophet Muhammad is reported never to have touched a woman who was not his wife or a close family member, even in formal settings [1] . Many Muslims adhere to this practice, refusing to shake hands with the opposite gender out of religious conviction.

For example, in professional settings, a Muslim candidate may choose to shake hands only with interviewers of the same gender [2] . Similarly, Muslim women may decline handshakes from men for the same reasons [3] . While some adherents may make exceptions in specific circumstances to avoid social awkwardness, the religious guideline remains widely respected.

Challenges can arise in multicultural workplaces or social environments, where declining a handshake may be misconstrued as rudeness. If you encounter this situation, consider alternative greetings such as a verbal welcome, a nod, or placing your hand over your heart. Employers and colleagues can foster inclusivity by encouraging awareness and acceptance of religious customs. If you are unsure how to approach a greeting, politely ask about preferences or follow the other person’s lead.

Orthodox Judaism: Restrictions on Handshakes with the Opposite Sex

Orthodox Judaism also restricts physical contact-including handshakes-between men and women who are not married or closely related. The root of this practice lies in Leviticus 18:6, which prohibits drawing near to forbidden relationships, interpreted by many rabbinic authorities as a ban on affectionate contact [4] . While hugging and kissing are clearly prohibited, handshaking is often considered a form of camaraderie and thus falls under the restriction.

In social and professional situations, Orthodox Jewish men and women may politely decline a handshake from someone of the opposite sex. This is not intended as an insult or a rejection, but as an adherence to religious law and personal conviction. If you are greeted in this way, reciprocate with a respectful alternative, such as a friendly verbal greeting or a smile. Understanding and accommodating these practices is essential for mutual respect in diverse environments.

Some Orthodox Jews may choose to shake hands in extenuating circumstances to avoid public embarrassment or discomfort, but generally, the prohibition is strictly observed.

Other Faiths and Cultural Practices: Non-Physical Greetings

In addition to Islam and Orthodox Judaism, other religions and cultures promote non-physical forms of greeting. Hindus and Buddhists often join their hands together and bow, while Japanese culture favors bowing over handshakes [1] . These practices reflect respect and humility while maintaining personal boundaries. If you are in a multicultural setting, observe local customs and follow the lead of your hosts or colleagues.

In some workplaces, surveys indicate that many employees prefer to avoid physical contact altogether. For instance, a UK survey of 2,000 workers found that 76% supported ending all physical contact at work, and 25% actively avoided handshakes as their chosen greeting [1] .

Practical Steps: How to Navigate Religious Greeting Customs

If you are unsure whether to offer a handshake, consider the following steps:

Observe the other person’s behavior and follow their lead.
Offer a verbal greeting, nod, or smile in place of a handshake.
If you are declined a handshake, do not take offense-respect the individual’s religious or cultural beliefs.
If you are in a leadership or HR position, educate staff on cultural and religious diversity to foster inclusion and understanding.
In formal settings, provide alternative greeting options and communicate that all forms of respectful greeting are welcome.
If you are unsure, politely ask about preferences: “How would you prefer to greet?”

Employers should be aware that refusal to shake hands for religious reasons may be protected under workplace anti-discrimination laws. In some cases, legal action has been taken against employers who penalized candidates for declining handshakes [2] . Ensure company policies respect individual rights and accommodate reasonable religious practices.

Examples and Case Studies: Real-World Applications

Numerous documented cases illustrate the intersection of religious practice and social etiquette:

In Sweden, a Muslim woman was awarded compensation after being denied a job for refusing to shake hands with a male interviewer, highlighting the importance of workplace accommodation [5] .
In Switzerland, Muslim students faced fines for declining to shake hands with female teachers, sparking national debate on religious freedom versus social norms [3] .
Orthodox Jewish professionals often inform colleagues in advance of their religious greeting preferences to avoid misunderstandings [4] .

These examples demonstrate the need for dialogue, education, and flexibility in multicultural societies.

Alternatives to Handshakes: Culturally Sensitive Greetings

For those seeking alternatives to handshakes, consider these respectful options:

Verbal greeting (“Hello,” “Nice to meet you”)
Nod or smile
Placing your hand over your heart
Bowing (as in Japanese or Buddhist tradition)
Joining hands together (Namaste gesture in Hinduism)

Flexibility in greetings not only accommodates religious and cultural beliefs but also can help reduce the spread of germs-a consideration increasingly relevant in post-pandemic workplaces.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Understanding the reasons behind the prohibition of handshakes in certain religions-primarily Islam and Orthodox Judaism-helps foster respect and inclusivity. If you encounter someone who does not shake hands for religious reasons, choose a culturally sensitive alternative and avoid taking offense. Employers and organizations can support diversity by educating staff and accommodating religious practices in professional settings.

If you need more guidance, consider contacting local religious organizations for expert advice on etiquette and inclusion. You can also research workplace diversity training programs or consult with human resources professionals experienced in multicultural environments. For authoritative information on religious customs, visit official resources such as the Religion News Service or consult recognized academic institutions specializing in religious studies.