Reply To: A mitzvah for an aveira? or at someone else’s expense?

oomis: “you had best believe I will not embarrass him by…b) attempting to explain to him al regel achas why we don’t shake hands”.

I have done this before (explained al regel achas) – and I want you to know that it is possible- and I don’t think anyone was offended. If you dress a certain way and act a certain way- from the first second that a man will see you – they will realize that you are “different” and religious, and in most cases will respect you for that. If a man extends his hand to you, I don’t see a problem with saying in a nice and respectful way (and not condescending) “I’m sorry, but due to religious reasons, it is forbidden for me to shake hands with a male.”

I would like to emphasize that you have to be consistent. If the way you dress and act are in a refined/modest manner, not only would he not be offended but he’ll respect you for it.