Can Muslims say "Shabbat shalom"?

What "Shabbat shalom" means

Shabbat is the Jewish Sabbath, from Friday sunset to Saturday night, and shalom means peace. It's the standard way Jews greet each other on Friday and Saturday, much like "have a good weekend". Interestingly, shalom shares the same Semitic root as the Arabic salam, so the idea of wishing peace is deeply familiar to Muslims. See Can I say "Assalamu alaikum" if I'm not Muslim?

Returning a greeting kindly

The Quran teaches Muslims to answer greetings with something equal or better:

So if a Jewish colleague says "Shabbat shalom" to you, responding warmly is good manners. Even scholars who are cautious agree you should reply politely, for example "Shalom" or "Peace to you too."

Why some scholars are cautious

A traditional view, often linked to Ibn al-Qayyim and held by many Hanbali and Salafi-leaning scholars today, says Muslims shouldn't congratulate others on their religious festivals or rituals, since it may imply approving of them. On this view, "Shabbat shalom" is a greeting attached to a religious observance, so it's better replaced with something general.

Many other scholars, especially those living among Jews and Christians in the West, say a common greeting is understood as friendliness, not a statement of belief. They allow it as long as you aren't joining in the worship itself. It's the same discussion as Christmas greetings. See Can I say "Merry Christmas" to my coworkers?

Practical options

• Comfortable with it: say "Shabbat shalom" with sincere goodwill, as a courtesy.
• Prefer to be careful: say "Shalom!", "Peace be with you" or "Have a restful weekend."
• Either way: avoid anything mocking or awkward, and be consistent so it doesn't feel forced.

Spending time with Jewish family on their holidays raises similar questions. See Can Muslims celebrate Passover with Jewish family?