وعليكم السلام
wa alaykumu s-salam
The Arabic way to say hello back is وعليكم السلام (wa alaykumu s-salam).
The phrase وعليكم السلام is a specific response used to return the greeting As-salamu alaykum (Peace be upon you).
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, وعليكم السلام means and upon you be peace.
How do you pronounce it?
wa alaykumu s-salam
Did you know?
- The word السلام (as-salam) is not just a greeting but is also the name of one of the many attributes of God in Islamic tradition, adding a layer of sanctity to the exchange.
- The phrase uses the plural form كم (kum) to address even a single person, a practice used to show high respect or to acknowledge the presence of a group.
- The word سلام (salam) comes from the same Semitic root as the Hebrew word shalom, meaning both 'peace' and 'wholeness'.
Example conversation
Youssef enters the room and greets Layla.
- يوسف Youssefالسلام عليكم يا ليلى.As-salaamu 'alaykum ya Layla.Peace be upon you, Layla.
- ليلى Laylaوعليكم السلام يا يوسف.wa 'alaykum as-salaam ya Youssef.Hello back, Youssef.
- يوسف Youssefكيف حالك اليوم؟Kayfa haluki al-yawm?How are you today?
- ليلى Laylaأنا بخير، شكراً.Ana bikhayr, shukran.I am fine, thank you.
