Salutations in Islam – Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Salutations in Islam hold a unique and significant place in daily interactions, emphasizing the values of peace and respect embedded within the religion.
Etymology and Translations
The Arabic term for salutations, as-salām (السلام), literally translates to “peace”. The act of giving this greeting is called taslīm (تسليم), and in plural form, it’s referred to as taslīmāt. The Hebrew equivalent is שָׁלוֹם (shalom).
Scriptural Basis
Islam prescribes the act of greeting and returning salutations as a religious duty based on specific verses from the Qur’an. For instance:
- Sūrah al-Nūr (24:61): “When ye enter houses, then greet each other with a salutation from God, the Blessed and the Good.”
- Sūrah al-Nisā (4:86): “When ye are saluted with a salutation, salute ye with a better than it, or return the same salutation.”
Prophetic Teachings
Prophet Muhammad established and exemplified the tradition of initiating and reciprocating greetings with peace. He advised that those who are riding should greet those on foot, the walking should greet the sitting, the smaller (in number or status) should greet the larger, and those of higher degree should greet those of lower status. He emphasized that those closest to God are those who initiate the greeting of peace.
Customary Greetings
The common Islamic salutation is:
- As-Salāmu ‘Alaikum (السلام عليكم) - “Peace be upon you.”
- Wa ‘Alaikum As-Salām (وَعَلَيْكُم السَّلام) - “And upon you be peace” (response).
A more elaborate version, based on traditions, is:
- “As-Salāmu ‘Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu” (Peace and God’s mercy and blessings be upon you).
Historical Context and Practices
According to tradition, as narrated by Abū Hurairah, God instructed Adam to greet a group of angels with “as-Salāmu ‘Alaikum,” and the angels replied “as-Salāmu ‘Alaika wa Rahmatullahi” (Peace be on thee, and the mercy of God). This interaction set a precedent for the greeting of peace in Islam.
Instructions by the Prophet
The following practices related to salutations were emphasized by Prophet Muhammad:
- Riders should greet pedestrians
- Walkers should greet those sitting
- Smaller groups should greet larger groups
- The young should greet the elderly
- It was sufficient for one person from a group to give or return a greeting.
Cultural Variations
While saluting with a raised right hand is common in the East, it is not traditionally prescribed in Islamic teachings. Raising the left hand is often viewed as disrespectful. The gesture of raising hands differs across cultures; for instance, the Prophet advised against emulating the gestures of Jews (raising fingers) and Christians (saluting with the palm of the hand).
Restrictions on Greeting Women
As per the tradition narrated by Jarīr, although Prophet Muhammad once greeted a group of women, generally, men are advised against greeting women unless they are elderly to prevent any form of unintended familiarity.
Takeaways and Conclusion
The Islamic practice of salutations emphasizes peace, respect, and social cohesion. It serves as a reminder of the importance of mutual respect and the desire for communal harmony.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “The Book of Manners” by Fu’ad Ibn ‘Abd al-‘Aziz Ash-Shulhabe.
- “The Explanation of Al Adab Al Mufrad” by Shaykh Muhammad Bin Salih Al Uthaymeen.
- “40 Hadiths on Islamic Manners” by Umar S. al-Ashqar.
Conclusion
The practice of exchanging salutations in Islam is a deeply rooted tradition established by Qur’anic injunctions and prophetic teachings. It underscores the values of peace, respect, and social connectivity, playing a profound role in daily Muslim interactions.
