Islamic Ruling on Brothers Kissing and Hugging Their Sisters

Is it permissible for a grown brother to express affection towards his adult sister through physical touch, such as hugs and kisses?

Allah (SWT) establishes a beautiful and sacred bond between siblings born of the same parents. This Mahram relationship prohibits marriage and fosters deep respect and love between brother and sister. Within this relationship, there is absolutely no harm in a brother showing affection towards his sister through occasional touches, cuddles, hugs, or even a kiss on the cheek. These gestures, motivated by pure brotherly love, strengthen the bond between siblings.

Expressing affection towards close female relatives (mahram) through physical touch, such as hugging and kissing, is not only permissible within Islamic tradition but is also considered a Sunnah, a practice modeled by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This means it is a recommended act, reflecting the importance of demonstrating love and care within familial bonds. Such gestures, when motivated by genuine familial affection—whether brotherly, fatherly, or similar—serve to strengthen these vital relationships. Hazrat Aishah said, “Once the Messenger of Allah kissed Fatima's neck so I said, Messenger of Allah! You have done something which you have not done before!” The Prophet answered: “Aisha, whenever I long for Paradise, I kiss Fatima's neck.".’[Source]

Khawarizmi wrote in his book Maqtal al-Husayn that Huthiefa said:

"The Messenger of Allah used to kiss Fatima all over her face before he went to sleep ....". [Source]


A sister hugging her brother






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