Further Insight on the Seven Salāms 🕊
Definition: The term Seven Salāms refers to seven specific verses in the Qurʾān that use the word “salām” (سلام), meaning “peace.” These verses are often recited during times of distress or illness, and in some cultures, written and dissolved in water to drink for protection.
Qurʾānic Verses of Salām
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Sūrah Ya-Sin 36:58
- Verse: “Peace shall be the word spoken unto the righteous by a merciful God.”
- Context: This verse speaks about the utterance of peace to the righteous in Paradise.
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Sūrah As-Saffat 37:77
- Verse: “Peace be on Noah and on all creatures.”
- Context: This verse acknowledges the contributions and sacrifices of Noah (Nūh) to humanity’s righteousness.
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Sūrah As-Saffat 37:109
- Verse: “Peace be on Abraham.”
- Context: This verse honors Abraham (Ibrahim) for his unwavering faith in God.
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Sūrah As-Saffat 37:120
- Verse: “Peace be on Moses and Aaron.”
- Context: This verse praises Moses (Mūsā) and Aaron (Hārūn) for leading their people.
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Sūrah As-Saffat 37:130
- Verse: “Peace be on Elias.”
- Context: A tribute to Elias (Elijah or Iliyās) for his piety and dedication.
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Sūrah As-Saffat 37:181
- Verse: “Peace be on His apostles.”
- Context: A generalized blessing upon the apostles and prophets.
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Sūrah Al-Qadr 97:5
- Verse: “It is peace until the breaking of the morn.”
- Context: Refers to the night of decree (Laylat al-Qadr), a night of blessings and mercy until dawn.
Etymology and Background
- Etymology: The word “salām” (سلام) originates from the root “s-l-m” in Arabic, meaning peace, safety, and well-being.
- Background: The word embodies the core Islamic values of peace and submission to God’s will. These selected Qurʾānic verses encapsulate the significance of living a life aligned with these values.
Cultural Practices
- Usage: In various Islamic cultures, the Seven Salāms are recited during times of illness, danger, or distress as a spiritual fortification.
- Custom: Some Muslims write these verses on paper, wash off the ink in water, and then drink that water. This is believed to bring spiritual and physical protection.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- In some cultures, oral recitation of the verses is emphasized, whereas in others, physical rituals (like drinking the dissolved ink) are more prominent.
- Though practices vary, the intrinsic belief in the protective power of these verses is consistent across different Islamic communities.
Related Terms
- Duʿā: Supplication or invocation
- Barakāh: Blessing
- Shifā: Healing
Fun Facts
- The emphasis on peace in these verses reflects Islam’s embrace of global harmony and coexistence.
- The rituals surrounding the Seven Salāms illustrate adaptive, culturally rich practices within Islam.
Inspirational Quote
“Islam calls itself Dīn-ul-Salām— the religion of peace, and the Salāms in the Qurʾān remind us that peace is the essence of divine communication.” — Fictitious Scholar Tarik Al-Mansoor
Recommended Literature
- “The Message of the Qur’an” by Muhammad Asad
- “Road to Mecca” by Muhammad Asad
- “Islamic Spirituality: Foundations” by S. H. Nasr
- “Qur’anic Keywords: A Reference Guide” by Abdullah Saeed
Final Thoughts
In reflecting on the Seven Salāms, one becomes profoundly aware of how intertwined the concepts of peace and righteousness are in Islamic theology. To dwell upon these verses is to illuminate a pathway toward inner tranquility and divinely favored life.
Hassan Al-Yazid October 3, 2023
🔖 Farewell Thought: Reflecting upon these divine greets of peace can lead us towards inner serenity and foster a world steeped in harmony and goodwill.
May peace be upon you. 🕊
