So, perhaps you have decided to avoid shaking hands, at least to try to observe shomer negiah (avoiding casual touch with the opposite gender). What if someone of the opposite gender offers you his or her hand? What do you say? This is one of the most challenging aspects of becoming observant and is often something people put off until they have already begun observing other mitzvos. However, men who wear yarmulkes might want to start observing shomer negiah right away to avoid giving the false impression that it is okay to shake hands with women. I can say that … Continue reading →