['Aalim Network QR] Salaam

[Ummulbanin <workshop@popmail.dircon.co.uk>]

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|       In the Name of Allah, the Compassionate, the All-Merciful       |\
|  Greeting of Allah be upon Muhammad and the pure members of his House |\
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Assalamu 'Alaykum

The following question was kindly answered by Mulla Bashir Rahim.

Salaams & Duas
Ummulbanin Merali - Moderator - 'Aalim Network

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QUESTION:

Whenever I pick up the phone, I say "Salaam Alaikum" regardless of who is on
the other line. My Muslim friend commented on me and told me that "Salaam"
is to be told to another Muslim only.

Is it true that only Muslims are to say "Salaam" to each other?
Should I stop saying "Salaam Alaikum" eventhough I want to convey that I am
a proud Muslim over the phone?


ANSWER:

Our form of salaam that is "salaamun 'alaikum" is not only the prescribed
form of greeting but also a du'aa. It is intended to confirm, promote and
consolidate the glorious brotherhood of
Islam in which each of us assumes responsibility for the safety and
well-being of the others.
We must not reduce the significance of the words by their indiscriminate
use. The fuqaha have discouraged the use of the word 'salaam' in  greeting
non-Muslims. 
It has been declared makruh,but NOT haraam. 
In the recently published  translation of the Contemporary Fatwas of
Ayatullah Seestani (May Allah Protect him and Preserve him)  the learned
Mujtahid has given his opinion on this issue. I quote from the book-let by
brother Hamid Mawani (May Allah reward him for his
good work): 
" There is no objection to commencing with 'salaam' to them, but it is
discouraged (makruh) except when necessary, even if it is customary. Their
salaam should be replied by 'alayka'.

With salaams and du'aas from an humble servant of Ahlul Bayt and their
followers, and with a
request to be remembered by you in your prayers,

Bashir Rahim