alayhi as-salām (SAAS) is a phrase religious muslims say whenever they refer to the name of any prophet and any messenger. Peace be upon him is the English-language translation of "alayhi as-salām". In any language it is a sign of great respect and honor. Muslims say or write the phrase to get Allah's blessings for prophet/messenger, and in turn, get blessings for themselves. The abbreviations PBUH and SAAS are used in writing in the Muslim world in private and sometimes government documents. The Qur'an, the holy book of Islam, commands this respect be given.