Q: I have noticed that some people kiss on the forehead when they meet. Is this culture or religion.  I am not against it. Just asking. Thankx (text – January 01-12)

A: Imaam Sh’abi (mursal—terminology as it relates to Hadith) reports that when the Rasool (SAW) met Jafar bin Abi Talib upon his return from Abyssinia, he embraced him and kissed him between the eyes (on the forehead.) (Reference: Imaams Abu Dawood and Bayhaqi also make mention of this hadith in their books)

Thus, to kiss on the forehead is permitted. Young must do it to the elderly. It must not be done between people that are the same age range, nor is it recommended to kiss people on the forehead when they remain despicable. One must not kiss when there is possibility that such kissing could lead to mischief. Do it to the truly pious.  Likewise, when the word kiss is used, it refers to a mere peck with minimized transfer of moisture coupled with respect (See Shiek moulana Manzoor Nomanis commentary on the above hadith.)

Allah Certainly Knows best.