Replying to Salaam on messages

Question:-

I have read in the English translation of Riyaad-us-Saaliheen under Hadith 852 that, when reading a letter or email, it is necessary to make Salaam verbally. Is this correct? And does it mean that if we message someone or receive a message with Salaam, then we have to reply verbally aloud?

Answer:-

It is Waajib to reply to the Salaam of a person in such an audible manner that the person that greeted is able to hear the response. However, if it is not possible to make him hear the response, then it is necessary to indicate to his greeting whereby he is aware that you responded to him.

If Salaam is recorded in a message or Whatsapp, then one may reply to his greeting when responding to his message or Whatsapp. In this way, one will be made aware that you responded to his greeting, as it is not possible in this instance for the sender to hear your verbal reply.

قال في شرح الشرعة واعلم أنهم قالوا إن السلام سنة وإسماعه مستحب وجوابه أي رده فرض كفاية وإسماع رده واجب بحيث لو لم يسمعه لا يسقط هذا الفرض عن السامع حتى قيل لو كان المسلم أصم يجب على الراد أن يحرك شفتيه ويريه بحيث لو لم يكن اصم لسمعه (رد المحتار ص413 ج6)

Re:- Kitaabun Nawaazil Pg.250/251 Vol.15

ALLAH TA’ALA KNOWS BEST!

ANSWERED BY:

Mufti Mohammed Desai

Date: 09 Rajab 1444 / 31 January 2023