Selam

Meaning & Etymology

Peace and tranquility

Peace and tranquility

Etymology

Derived from the Semitic root word s-l-m, which is related to peace and safety.

Linguistic family: Afro-Asiatic > Semitic > South Semitic

Cultural context

In Eritrean Tigrinya culture, the name Selam is a common given name that reflects the values of peace and harmony within the community.

Symbolism

The name Selam symbolises the aspiration for peace, both in personal life and in the wider community.

Naming ceremony

In Tigrinya tradition, the naming ceremony usually takes place on the eighth day after birth, where the child is officially named and blessings are given by family elders.

Related names

• Salamu (Swahili)
• Salama (Amharic)
• Salamah (Arabic)