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. See Can I say "inshaAllah" if I'm not Muslim?
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.
People also ask
Can I wear a hijab if I'm not Muslim?
Yes, if it's respectful. Many non-Muslim women wear a headscarf at mosques or on World Hijab Day. Here's what to know.
Read the full answer →Can I say "inshaAllah" if I'm not Muslim?
Yes. "InshaAllah" means "if God wills," and Arab Christians use it daily. Here's what it means and how to use it well.
Read the full answer →Can I still become Muslim if I have a criminal record?
Yes. Anyone can become Muslim, whatever their past. The shahada wipes out past sins with Allah. Here's what still matters after.
Read the full answer →Do I have to tell my family before I become Muslim?
No. You don't need permission or an announcement first. Here's how to choose the right time, how to tell your family, and what if you feel unsafe.
Read the full answer →Do I need to learn Arabic before I become Muslim?
No. You can become Muslim without Arabic. Here's how the shahada works, what to say in prayer while you learn, and easy ways to learn Al-Fatiha.
Read the full answer →