Saying as-Salamu 'alaykum Before the Khutba

Question

It is written in “Khutba Ma'thura” that, having ascended the minbar, one would turn towards the people, then give the salam and sit down. But now this is not the custom — why not? Should this now be made a regular practice or not?

Answer

I have not seen this collection of khutbas. In the books of fiqh, however, [it is stated] that on coming onto the minbar [the khatib] should not give the salam; according to the Shafi'is, he is to give the salam.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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