Q 5: Your Honor, you know that exchanging greetings plays a great role in our life and the lives of our fathers. However, here in Nigeria, it does not comply with the instructions of Islam. What is the greeting that is in accordance with Allah's command and the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him)?

A: The Prophet (peace be upon him) commanded us to spread greetings among Muslims because it has great benefits. The Greeting should be, "As-Salam `Alaikum [Peace be upon you]". If one adds wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh (Allah's mercy and blessings), it will be a complete salutation, and the one greeted should respond in the same manner. Allah (Exalted be He) states: When you are greeted with a greeting, greet in return with what is better than it, or (at least) return it equally. One may also shake hands along with the mentioned salutation which will be the most perfect. Hugging is also a way of greeting, especially with those who return from a journey. Bowing is not permissible because it is Ruku` (bowing), and Ruku` is a form of worship which is only permissible to be for Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He). (Part No. 24; Page No. 122) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.