[Sami] Islamic greetings

Sami Jan

Pakistan derives its greeting habits from the religion most widely practiced in the country, Islam. Islam encourages closeness and brotherhood among it's citizens and hence our greetings tend to be warm and affectionate. 

When men meet each other, it starts with a loud "As salaam o alaikum", literally meaning "peace be upon you" and a light embrace, followed by a handshake. 

When women meet, they proceed with a peck on each cheek, followed by a hug. Traditionally, men and women who are not related by blood or marriage do not touch each other and hence the greeting is passed verbally. One's own children or nephews and nieces would be kissed and hugged and carried in arms, indicating the close bond that families typically enjoy.

Since every region around the world has it's own traditions of greeting people, it's always a good idea to keep oneself informed beforehand. In case that's not possible, the safest approach is to greet with a loud hello. In that case, it always brings a smile to the other person, regardless of the region or gender or age group - and leads to a happy exchange of words and possibly a long lasting friendship.

Sami Jan from Pakistan