So, “Salam aleikum” is an Arabic greeting that in our language means “Peace be upon you”. It is quite a popular way to greet among Muslims and is used in many countries. “Salam” in this expression is a shortening that also translates as “peace”. If you are curious about which language “salam aleikum” is most often heard in, it is, of course, Arabic.
This greeting has religious and cultural significance and is widely used among Muslims around the world, regardless of language: Arabs, Turks, Persians, Tatars, Chechens, Uzbeks, etc. It is not just a formality — it is a wish for goodness, safety, and harmony. It is often used both among Muslims and as a sign of respect in multicultural communities.
The traditional response to the greeting “Salam aleikum” is:
“Wa aleikum assalam” (وَعَلَيْكُمُ السَّلَام) — “And peace be upon you too”.