What is the sunnah method of embracing one another?
The answer
We could not locate any clear and explicit hadith exhibiting the sunnah method of embracing one another. This is something which is a customary practice and can change from time and place. There are no prescriptions on how to embrace. Humans have their own ways to express their love and goodwill to one another in different societies and cultures.
In short: no explicit hadith prescribes a method; embracing follows custom.
Explanation
Some scholars have commented on this and answered this question in light of the Arabic language. Embracing is translated as mu’anaqah in the Arabic language. The word mu’anaqah stems from the word ‘unuq. ‘Unuq means neck. In addition, in concordance to the Arabic science of morphology, a word such as mu’anaqah denotes a double performance.Keeping cognisance of the Arabic language, some scholars are of the opinion that a complete mu’anaqah (embrace) is that which takes place twice. In their opinion, the two individuals embracing one another should make their right side of their necks meet first and then their left sides. Embracing one side will suffice.1
In conclusion, the method of embracing can change from place to place. The Sunnah is to greet and meet one another with love.
And Allah knows best.
Darul Fiqh Team
Reviewed and approved by Mufti Faraz Adam
References
1تحفة الألمعي ج 6 ص 501 زمزم
فتاوى محمودية ج 19 ص 118 إدارة القاروق
Based on the Hanafi school and on the question as it was asked. Another mufti may reach a different conclusion. Read the disclaimer.