In Arabic, conveying the sentiment of “peace be upon them” is an important aspect of Muslim culture and a way of expressing respect towards revered individuals. This phrase is commonly used when mentioning prophets, religious figures, or other highly respected individuals. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say “peace be upon them” in Arabic, providing tips, examples, and regional variations.
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Formal Ways to Say “Peace Be Upon Them” in Arabic
In formal contexts, such as religious discussions or official writings, the following expressions are usually employed to convey the sentiment of “peace be upon them” in Arabic:
1. عَلَيْهِمُ السَّلَامُ
The most common phrase used to say “peace be upon them” in Arabic is “عَلَيْهِمُ السَّلَامُ” (pronounced: ‘alayhimu as-salam). This phrase is used when referring to multiple individuals, regardless of their gender. For example:
The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said, “النَّبِيُّ مُحَمَّدٌ عَلَيْهِ الصَّلاَةُ وَالسَّلَامُ”.
Translation: The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said.
2. عَلَيْهَا السَّلَامُ
When referring to a single female individual, the phrase “عَلَيْهَا السَّلَامُ” (pronounced: ‘alayha as-salam) is used. For instance:
Maryam, peace be upon her, is revered in the Islamic tradition.
Translation: Maryam, peace be upon her, is revered in the Islamic tradition.
Informal Ways to Say “Peace Be Upon Them” in Arabic
In informal settings or casual conversations, shorter versions of the expressions mentioned above are commonly used to convey the sentiment of “peace be upon them” in Arabic:
1. عَلَيْهِنَّ السَّلَاَمُ
The phrase “عَلَيْهِنَّ السَّلَاَمُ” (pronounced: ‘alayhinna as-salam) is used when referring to multiple female individuals:
Fatima, Aisha, and Khadija, peace be upon them, are revered female figures.
Translation: Fatima, Aisha, and Khadija, peace be upon them, are revered female figures.
2. عَلَيْهِ السَّلَاَمُ
When expressing “peace be upon him” in reference to a single male individual, the phrase “عَلَيْهِ السَّلَاَمُ” (pronounced: ‘alayhi as-salam) is used:
Musa, peace be upon him, was raised by Pharaoh’s wife.
Translation: Musa, peace be upon him, was raised by Pharaoh’s wife.
Regional Variations
While the core phrases mentioned above are widely understood throughout the Arabic-speaking world, it’s worth noting that minor regional variations exist. Here are a few examples:
1. عَلَيْهُمُ السَّلاَمُ
In some regions, people use “عَلَيْهُمُ السَّلاَمُ” (pronounced: ‘alayhumu as-salam) interchangeably with the more common “عَلَيْهِمُ السَّلَامُ” to convey the same meaning:
The Companions of the Prophet, peace be upon them, played a significant role in spreading Islam.
Translation: The Companions of the Prophet, peace be upon them, played a significant role in spreading Islam.
2. عَلَيْهَا وَعَلَيْكِ السَّلاَمُ
In certain communities, it is customary to use the extended phrase “عَلَيْهَا وَعَلَيْكِ السَّلاَمُ” (pronounced: ‘alayha wa ‘alayki as-salam) when addressing female individuals. This phrase covers both the person being mentioned and the person being addressed:
Fatima, peace be upon her, and peace be upon you too!
Translation: Fatima, peace be upon her, and peace be upon you too!
Final Thoughts
Saying “peace be upon them” in Arabic is a way of showing reverence, respect, and invoking blessings upon revered individuals. Whether you opt for formal or informal expressions, using these phrases appropriately in religious or cultural contexts can deepen your understanding of Arabic culture and customs.
