Question:
These are questions and inquiries received from listeners. We begin with the sender, Ibrahim bin Maqbool, who asks: “If a non-Muslim approaches you and initiates the greeting of Salam (peace), is it permissible to respond by saying: ‘Wa Alaykum as-Salam’ (And upon you be peace)? What is the proper way to respond to him? Also, is it permissible to initiate the greeting with him? What is your opinion? May Allah guide you to the best of deeds.”
Answer:
Praise be to Allah. It is not permissible to initiate the greeting of Salam to a non-Muslim—meaning, you should not be the first to say “As-Salamu Alaykum” to him. However, if he greets you first, you respond with the following phrase: “Wa Alaykum” (And upon you). This is because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) commanded this regarding the People of the Book and others who are like them, if not of a lower status.