Surah Adh-Dhariyat — Verse 25

Word Meanings:

• Salāman (سَلَامًا): A greeting meaning "peace," i.e., "We greet you with peace."
• Salām (سَلَامٌ): A reply meaning "peace be upon you."
• Munkarūn (مُّنكَرُونَ): Unknown, unfamiliar, or strangers—people not recognized.

Explanation of the Verse:

This verse takes us back to the noble moment when the angels, honored guests of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him), came to visit him. They entered his home and greeted him with the words "Salāman" — a greeting of peace and safety. Prophet Ibrahim, may peace be upon him, responded with an even more complete and beautiful reply: "Salām" — meaning "peace be upon you."

However, as he looked at them, he realized they were not ordinary visitors. They were guests he had never seen before, and their appearance was unfamiliar to him. So he said to himself, "These are people I do not know." This feeling of unease was natural, as he did not yet know their purpose or identity. Yet, despite this, his manners remained impeccable — he returned their greeting with kindness and did not turn them away.

This brief exchange teaches us profound lessons in Islamic etiquette: the importance of returning a greeting with something equal or better, the virtue of hospitality even toward strangers, and the calm, composed demeanor of a believer when faced with the unexpected. Prophet Ibrahim's response reflects the noble character that Allah loved and honored, making him a model for all who believe.

A Call to Reflection:

How beautiful is the character of the Prophet of Allah, Ibrahim! Even in a moment of uncertainty, he did not lose his composure or his graciousness. This is the essence of Islamic manners — to treat every guest with honor, to spread peace, and to respond to kindness with even greater kindness. Let us strive to embody these values in our daily lives: greeting others with a smile and a word of peace, welcoming guests warmly, and trusting in Allah when we face the unknown. For indeed, the angels came to Ibrahim with glad tidings, and his patience and hospitality were rewarded with blessings beyond measure. May we, too, be people of peace and generosity, drawing closer to Allah through our treatment of His creation.