Topical Bible: Salutations: "Hail, Master!"

◄ Salutations: "Hail, Master!" ►

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The phrase "Hail, Master!" is a form of salutation found in the New Testament, specifically in the context of the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot. This greeting is significant in its historical and theological implications, as it highlights themes of hypocrisy, betrayal, and the fulfillment of prophecy.

Biblical Context:

The phrase "Hail, Master!" is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew during the account of Jesus' arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. In Matthew 26:49 , Judas approaches Jesus and says, "Greetings, Rabbi!" and kisses Him. The term "Rabbi" is often translated as "Master" or "Teacher," and the greeting "Hail" or "Greetings" is a customary salutation of respect and honor. However, in this context, it is laden with irony and deceit, as Judas uses it to identify Jesus to the arresting soldiers.

Theological Significance:

1. Hypocrisy and Betrayal: The salutation "Hail, Master!" is a poignant example of hypocrisy. Judas, one of the twelve disciples, uses a gesture of respect to betray Jesus. This act fulfills the prophecy found in Psalm 41:9, "Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me." The duplicity of Judas serves as a warning against the dangers of false appearances and the betrayal of trust.

2. Fulfillment of Prophecy: The betrayal by Judas and the manner in which it occurs are seen as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. This event underscores the sovereignty of God and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. Despite the treachery involved, it ultimately leads to the crucifixion and resurrection, central events in Christian theology.

3. Jesus' Response: Jesus' response to Judas' greeting is noteworthy. In Matthew 26:50 , Jesus replies, "Friend, do what you came for." Despite the betrayal, Jesus addresses Judas as "Friend," demonstrating His unwavering love and the offer of grace even in the face of treachery. This response exemplifies the teachings of Jesus on loving one's enemies and forgiving those who wrong us.

Practical Application:

For believers, the account of Judas' betrayal and the use of the salutation "Hail, Master!" serves as a reminder to examine the sincerity of one's own faith and actions. It calls Christians to live authentically, ensuring that their words and deeds align with their professed beliefs. Additionally, it encourages believers to trust in God's sovereign plan, even when faced with betrayal or adversity.

In conclusion, the salutation "Hail, Master!" is a powerful narrative element within the Gospel accounts, rich with theological meaning and practical lessons for the Christian life. It challenges believers to reflect on their own integrity and to trust in the redemptive purposes of God, as revealed through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Nave's Topical Index

Matthew 26:49
And immediately he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

But, if it Does not Weary You, Let the Point Out as Briefly as ...
... Judas came to Jesus and said unto Him, Hail, Master, and kissed Him." Thus through
the soft blandishment of a kiss he implanted the execrable dart of betrayal. ...
/.../20 but if it does.htm

The Arrest of Jesus
... And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him.
And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? ...
/.../newton/the life of jesus christ for the young/the arrest of jesus.htm

Of the Accounts which are Given by all the Four Evangelists in ...
... And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, Master; and kissed Him." [1278]
First of all, however, as we gather from Luke's statement, He said to the ...
/.../augustine/the harmony of the gospels/chapter v of the accounts which.htm

Now to Call Such Scripture Skill Divine Knowledge, is Just as ...
... knowledge was. It may say to Christ, as he did, Hail master; but no one
can call Jesus Lord, but by the Holy Spirit. This empty ...
/.../address 95 0 0 now to call.htm

The one Business Then Upon his Hands, if He Will Hold Out against ...
... off all fearful forebodings of the consequences of not receiving the gospel, it
is because it so plainly sees, that Christians say, "Hail, master," kiss the ...
/.../law/the way to divine knowledge/way-1-102 the one business then.htm

And Judas Iscariot
... And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, Master; and kissed him." And then
finally comes his dreadful end, the account of his remorse in Matthew, the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/chapman/and judas iscariot/and judas iscariot.htm

Betrayed by a Kiss.
... as he came, until he stopped immediately behind Jesus; then standing on tiptoe he
reached over the shoulder of Jesus and kissed him, saying, "Hail, Master.". ...
//christianbookshelf.org/stead/king of the jews/chapter iv betrayed by a.htm

Conclusion
... And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, Master; and kissed Him.
And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/why four gospels/conclusion.htm

Gethsemane
... familiar friend. With the words, "Hail, Master," he kisses Him repeatedly,
and appears to weep as if in sympathy with Him in His peril. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/the desire of ages/chapter 74 gethsemane.htm

May 9. "All Hail" (Matt. xxviii. 9).
... A thoughtful friend suggested once that the word "hail" really means health, and
it is ... it to our beloved friends according to the fulness of the Master's will. ...
/.../simpson/days of heaven upon earth /may 9 all hail matt.htm