that 'Aishah narrated to him that he Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said to her: "Indeeed Jibril has sent Salam to you." She said: "And upon him be peace and the mercy of Allah and His Blessings."
Hadith Commentary: Jibril's Salām to 'Ā'ishah
This noble narration from Jāmi' at-Tirmidhī (2693) in the "Chapters on Seeking Permission" demonstrates the high status of Umm al-Mu'minīn 'Ā'ishah (رضي الله عنها) and the honor bestowed upon her by Allah through His angel Jibrīl.
The Excellence of 'Ā'ishah
This hadith establishes the special merit of 'Ā'ishah, as Jibrīl (عليه السلام) did not send salām to any other wife of the Prophet (ﷺ) in this manner. This indicates her elevated rank among the Mothers of the Believers.
Scholars explain that this honor reflects her profound understanding of Islam, her transmission of vast knowledge, and her purity as affirmed in the Qur'ān.
Etiquette of Responding to Salām
'Ā'ishah's response "وَعَلَيْهِ السَّلَامُ وَرَحْمَةُ اللَّهِ وَبَرَكَاتُهُ" demonstrates the complete form of returning salām, which includes peace, mercy, and blessings.
This teaches us that when angels or righteous people send salām, we should respond with the full formula, showing respect and recognizing the honor of such greetings.
The Reality of Angelic Communication
This narration confirms that angels can convey messages to humans through Allah's permission, and that the pious may receive special communications from the unseen world.
It also shows the close relationship between the Prophet's household and the angelic realm, highlighting the blessed nature of his family and companions.