What is assalamualaikum?


Assalamualaikum (Arabic: ٱلسَّلَامُ عَلَيْكُمْ, as-salāmu ʿalaykum, IPA: [as.sa.laːmu ʕaˈlaj.kum]) is an Arabic greeting that means "Peace be upon you." It is a common greeting used by Muslims around the world.

Here's some key information:

  • Meaning: The phrase is a blessing, wishing peace and safety upon the person being greeted.
  • Usage: It's a standard greeting among Muslims, regardless of their language or ethnicity. It's used when meeting someone, entering a room, or leaving a place.
  • Response: The typical response to Assalamualaikum is Wa alaikum assalam (وَعَلَيْكُمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), which means "And upon you be peace."
  • Etiquette: It is generally considered good etiquette for a Muslim to initiate the greeting Assalamualaikum.

Here are some related subjects that might be of interest:

  • Arabic Language: The language of the greeting and its cultural significance.
  • Islamic Culture: The broader context of greetings and social interactions within Islam.
  • Etiquette in Islam: The rules of polite behavior within Islamic tradition.