What are the Shar’i regulations for the term "Amūm al-Balwā" (widespread affliction/common necessity), and does it apply to a man shaking hands with a woman without desire to avoid social problems?
The term "umum al-balwa" (widespread affliction) refers to common occurrences that are difficult to avoid. These are considered reasons for leniency in Islamic law, as "hardship brings ease," in accordance with the Almighty's saying: "And He has not placed upon you in religion any difficulty."
Examples include: pardoning minor impurities that are difficult to guard against, purifying the inner sole of a shoe by rubbing it, and certain transactions such as the permissibility of eating carrion for one in dire necessity.
However, "umum al-balwa" does not justify violating clear scriptural texts, such as shaking hands with a non- woman. There are texts that prohibit this, and the hardship involved is not considered a justification, due to the existence of a clear text.
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