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Is it OK to say shalom?
Yes, absolutely! ‘Shalom’ means ‘peace’ in Hebrew, and is also considered to be one of God’s names (which is why many very observant Jews won’t say ‘shalom’ to anyone when they are in the bathroom, for example.)
How do you greet a Jew?
Verbal greetings tend to be quite informal. The most common greeting and parting phrase in Hebrew is “Shalom” (Peace). Jewish Israelis may also greet by saying “Ahlan”. “Shalom’ may be followed by the casual greetings of “Ma nishma” (What’s up?) or “Ma koreh” (What’s happening?).
When should you say mazel tov?
One can expect to hear people shout “mazel tov” at Jewish weddings just after the groom breaks the glass, at brit milah (bris) ceremonies, and bar/bat mitzvahs. Mazel tov is an appropriate response to any good news, from engagement to graduation, a new job, a new house, or any other honour or milestone.
What does Salaam shalom mean?
peace
Assalamu alaikum comes from the Arabic word salaam, which means “peace.” Salaam is derived from the same root that the word Islam comes from. Shalom aleichem also means “peace be upon you.” The words salaam and shalom are both descended from the same Semitic root also meaning “peace.”
What is an appropriate Passover greeting?
The greeting for Passover is simply “Chag Sameach!” (Happy Holidays) or “Chag Pesach Sameach!” (Happy Passover Holiday).
What is the response to Shalom?
aleichem shalom
The appropriate response is aleichem shalom (“unto you peace”) (Hebrew: עֲלֵיכֶם שָׁלוֹם). The plural form “עֲלֵיכֶם” is used even when addressing one person. This form of greeting is traditional among Jews throughout the world.
What did Phoebe mean by mazel tov?
Usage. Mazel tov is literally translated as “good luck” but is not used as that phrase is in English, as a wish for the future. Instead, the implicit meaning is “good luck has occurred” or “your fortune has been good” and the expression is an acknowledgement of that fact.