among the people and shaking their hands, nor in beginning with the person on the right by the door, who may be the youngest of the group.

As for the first point, it is well known that when the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, entered, he would sit wherever he found a place at the end of the gathering (1); he would not go around greeting the people one by one.

As for the second, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, had a tooth-stick with which he was cleaning his teeth, and he wished to hand it to the younger of two men. But he was told, “Give it to the elder,” so he gave it to the elder (2). Accordingly, when a person is facing the people, he should begin with the eldest. But when he is holding a vessel and wishes to pass it, he should begin with the right. Thus, if there is one person on his right and another on his left, he gives it to the one on his right.

His statement, “It is recommended to wash one’s hands before a meal,” means that it is recommended to wash one’s hands before eating. The scholars differ concerning this matter: is it sunnah to wash one’s hands before eating in all cases, or only when there is a need?

The apparent view is that a distinction should be made. If there is a need, then wash your hands. Such need includes having touched something that has soiled your hand, or having shaken hands with many people and noticed an unpleasant smell. In that case, it is preferable to wash your hands; otherwise, there is no need.