Topical Encyclopedia Salutations by kissing are a form of greeting or farewell that is mentioned several times in the Bible, reflecting cultural practices of the ancient Near East and early Christian communities. This gesture, often referred to as the "holy kiss," is a symbol of love, unity, and peace among believers.Old Testament Context While the Old Testament does not explicitly command the practice of kissing as a form of salutation, it does provide instances where kissing is used as a sign of affection and respect. For example, in Genesis 27:26-27, Isaac kisses Jacob as a blessing, and in Genesis 29:11, Jacob kisses Rachel upon meeting her. These instances highlight the cultural significance of kissing as a gesture of familial love and acceptance. New Testament Practice The New Testament provides more direct references to the practice of greeting one another with a kiss. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, encourages believers to greet one another with a holy kiss. In Romans 16:16, he writes, "Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send you greetings." Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 16:20, 2 Corinthians 13:12, and 1 Thessalonians 5:26, Paul reiterates this instruction, emphasizing the importance of this gesture in fostering Christian fellowship and unity. The Apostle Peter also echoes this sentiment in 1 Peter 5:14, where he instructs believers to "Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ." This practice was a tangible expression of the love and peace that should characterize the relationships within the body of Christ. Cultural and Theological Significance In the early Christian context, the holy kiss was more than a mere cultural formality; it was a profound expression of the new relationships formed in Christ. It symbolized the breaking down of social barriers and the establishment of a new community where love and equality prevailed. The holy kiss served as a reminder of the believers' shared identity in Christ and their commitment to live in harmony with one another. Theologically, the holy kiss can be seen as an outward manifestation of the inward transformation that occurs in the life of a believer. It reflects the love of Christ that compels believers to love one another deeply and sincerely. As such, it was an important practice in the early church, reinforcing the bonds of Christian fellowship and the unity of the Spirit. Contemporary Application While the specific practice of greeting with a kiss may not be as common in all modern Christian communities, the underlying principles remain relevant. The call to express love, unity, and peace among believers transcends cultural practices and continues to be a vital aspect of Christian life. In contemporary settings, believers are encouraged to find culturally appropriate ways to express these values, whether through a handshake, hug, or other gestures of affection and respect. In summary, salutations by kissing in the biblical context serve as a powerful symbol of the love and unity that should characterize the relationships within the body of Christ. This practice, rooted in the teachings of the apostles, underscores the importance of expressing genuine affection and peace among believers. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 20:9And Joab said to Amasa, Are you in health, my brother? And Joab took Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kiss him. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 26:49 Library Concerning Salutations and Recreations, &C. A Compendious view of the Christian Life. Resources What is the Hail Mary that Catholics say so often? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of 2 John - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from what the Bible says about Paul and Timothy? | GotQuestions.org Salutations: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Salutations were Given by all Passers-By Salutations were Given by Brethren to Each Other Salutations were Given by Inferiors to Their Superiors Salutations were Given by Superiors to Inferiors Salutations were Given: On Entering a House Salutations: "Are You Well, My Brother?" Salutations: "May God be Gracious to You" Salutations: "Peace (Hebrew: Shalom) to This House" Salutations: "Peace to You" (Hebrew: Shalomleka) Salutations: "Peace" (Hebrew: Shalom) Salutations: Denied to Persons of Bad Character Salutations: Expressions Used as all Hail Salutations: Expressions Used as Art Thou in Health? Salutations: Expressions Used as Blessed be Thou of the Lord Salutations: Expressions Used as God be Gracious to Thee Salutations: Expressions Used as Hail Salutations: Expressions Used as Peace be to This House Salutations: Expressions Used as Peace be With Thee Salutations: Expressions Used as Peace to Thee, and Peace to Thine House, and Peace to All Salutations: Expressions Used as The Blessing of the Lord be Upon You, we Bless You in The Salutations: Expressions Used as The Lord be With You Salutations: Expressions Used as The Lord Bless Thee Salutations: from a Master to his Servants, "May the Lord be With You" Salutations: Given to Christ in Derision Salutations: Often Accompanied by Bowing Frequently to the Ground Salutations: Often Accompanied by Embracing and Kissing the Feet Salutations: Often Accompanied by Falling on the Neck and Kissing Salutations: Often Accompanied by Falling Prostrate on the Ground Salutations: Often Accompanied by Kissing the Dust Salutations: Often Accompanied by Laying Hold of the Bear With the Right Hand Salutations: Often Accompanied by Touching the Hem of the Garment Salutations: Often Sent by Letter Salutations: Often Sent Through Messengers Salutations: Persons in Haste Excused from Giving or Receiving Salutations: Servants to Their Masters, "May the Lord Bless You" Salutations: The Jews Condemned for Giving, Only to Their Countrymen Salutations: The Pharisees Condemned for Seeking, in Public Related Terms |
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