Can I say "Assalamu alaikum" if I'm not Muslim?
Yes. "Assalamu alaikum" means "peace be upon you," and anyone can say it. Most Muslims are happy, even touched, when a non-Muslim friend or coworker greets them this way. Say it with respect, and expect a warm "Wa alaikum assalam" back.
A greeting of peace
The salam is the everyday greeting of Muslims around the world, from London to Jakarta. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged spreading it widely. He said it is a thing that "will foster love amongst you" (Sahih Muslim 54), and he praised greeting "those whom you know and those whom you do not know" (Sahih al-Bukhari 12).
A greeting that builds love and peace isn't something Muslims want to keep to themselves.
How Muslims reply
The usual reply is "Wa alaikum assalam" (and upon you be peace). The Prophet ﷺ once told his companions to answer People of the Book with "Wa'alaikum" (and on you) (Sahih al-Bukhari 6258). Scholars explain that some people at the time were twisting the greeting into an insult that sounded similar. Many scholars today say that when a non-Muslim clearly offers the salam sincerely, Muslims can return it in full.
So if someone replies with just "Wa alaikum," don't take it personally. They're following a narration, not rejecting you.
How to say it
- Pronunciation: "as-SAH-laam-u a-LAY-kum."
- Short version: "Salam" is fine among friends.
- Longer version: "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh" adds "and the mercy of Allah and His blessings."
When it's appreciated most
Entering a mosque, meeting Muslim neighbors, greeting a colleague during Ramadan or Eid. Just avoid using it as a joke or with a fake accent, which can feel mocking. If you're exploring Islam, using the greeting is a gentle way to connect. For visiting a mosque, see Can I visit a mosque if I'm not Muslim?
- "Assalamu alaikum" means "peace be upon you."
- Non-Muslims are welcome to use it.
- The usual reply is "Wa alaikum assalam."
- Say it with respect, not as a joke.
Comments (0)
Please keep it kind and respectful.