As-salamu alaykum (Arabic: ٱلسَّلَامُ عَلَيْكُمْ, romanized: as-salāmu ʿalaykum, pronounced [as.sa.laː.mu ʕa.laj.kum] ⓘ), also written salamun alaykum and typically rendered in English as salam alaykum, is a greeting in Arabic that means 'Peace be upon you'.
“Salam” or “peace” is one of the foundations of Islam. “Salam” or “peace” is one of the 99 names of Allah, or God, and carries great significance to Muslims everywhere.
The Arabic word “Salam” (سلام) holds deep meaning in both language and culture. It translates to “peace” in English and is widely used in greetings, religious contexts, and daily conversations.
Salam is an Arabic word, which is spelled as سلام. It derives its root of the same word as Islam and Muslim which is S-L-M (س ل م). This root has connotations of tranquility, security, submissiveness and deliverance of evil or harm.
In Islam, the word “Salam” holds deep significance, representing peace, safety, and well-being. It is more than just a greeting; it is an essential part of Islamic faith and practice. Salam fosters brotherhood, love, and unity among Muslims and carries with it a sense of respect and humility.
The Impact of Salam | Spreading Peace and Unity in Islam 2026
The Muslim greeting of salam “saying as-salamu alaykum ” in Arabic means “ peace be upon you”. It may be new to many that this greeting was taught by Moses and Jesus.
Based on that, the best and most complete phrase to use when giving the greeting of Salam is: “As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu” and the best phrase to use when returning the greeting is: “Wa alaykum As-salam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu.”