How does Jacob's kiss in Genesis 29:11 reflect cultural norms of his time? The Moment at the Well “Then Jacob kissed Rachel and wept aloud.” (Genesis 29:11) What the Kiss Signified in That Culture • A normal family greeting. In patriarchal society a kiss on the cheek signaled kinship and welcome. • An announcement of relationship. Jacob was Laban’s nephew (Genesis 29:12); the kiss publicly marked him as family. • Respect and honor. Kissing expressed deference toward one’s own relatives (Genesis 29:13; 33:4; Exodus 18:7). • Covenantal warmth. Similar gestures appear later in Israel’s life—e.g., Samuel anointing Saul (1 Samuel 10:1) and the “holy kiss” among believers (Romans 16:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:26). Why It Was Acceptable Between an Unmarried Man and Woman • Family status removed impropriety; Rachel was Jacob’s cousin. • Public setting at the well added transparency; nothing clandestine occurred. • No record of protest from bystanders or Rachel—indicating the act fit accepted customs. Jacob’s Tears • Overflow of relief and gratitude after weeks of travel (Genesis 28:20–22). • Joy at God’s providence—meeting the very household he sought (Psalm 126:3–5). • Men freely wept in Scripture when moved (Genesis 33:4; 45:14–15). Key Takeaways • Ancient Near-Eastern kisses commonly conveyed kinship, not merely romance. • Scripture presents the gesture as honorable and familial, affirming God-given ties. • The scene underscores God’s faithful guidance, linking promise (Genesis 28:15) with providence (Genesis 29:11–14). |
    |