Does obtaining a PhD in microbiology in the United States count as knowledge encouraged by Islam and leading to Paradise, especially if it will benefit the questioner's country and its people? And what is the legal ruling on shaking hands with men in a Western environment when refraining from shaking hands would cause problems hindering studies and social life, while the questioner feels a pang of conscience?
The science of medicine is among the communal obligations (furuḍ al-kifāyāt), and whoever pursues it for the benefit of Muslims will be rewarded. It is not permissible for a woman to shake hands with non-mahram men, just as studying in mixed-gender universities entails Sharia-compliant precautions.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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