Topical Bible: Salutations: Often Accompanied by Bowing Frequently to the Ground

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In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, salutations were significant social and religious gestures, often accompanied by physical acts of respect such as bowing to the ground. These acts were expressions of reverence, humility, and acknowledgment of authority or divine presence.

Old Testament Context

Bowing to the ground as a form of salutation is frequently observed in the Old Testament. This gesture was a common practice in the ancient Near East, symbolizing respect and submission. One notable instance is found in Genesis 18:2, where Abraham encounters three visitors: "When he saw them, he ran from the entrance of his tent to meet them and bowed low to the ground." This act of bowing signifies Abraham's recognition of the visitors' importance and possibly their divine nature.

Another example is found in Genesis 33:3, where Jacob, upon meeting his brother Esau after many years, "bowed to the ground seven times as he approached his brother." This repeated bowing was an expression of humility and a plea for reconciliation, acknowledging Esau's potential authority and power over him.

In 1 Samuel 24:8, David demonstrates a similar gesture of respect towards King Saul: "Then David went out of the cave and called out to Saul, 'My lord the king!' When Saul looked behind him, David bowed facedown and prostrated himself." Despite Saul's pursuit to kill him, David's bowing indicates his respect for Saul's anointed position as king.

New Testament Context

While the New Testament does not emphasize bowing to the ground in salutations as prominently as the Old Testament, the concept of showing respect and reverence remains. In the Gospels, individuals often fall at Jesus' feet, a gesture akin to bowing, to express faith, desperation, or gratitude. For instance, in Mark 5:22, Jairus, a synagogue leader, "fell at His feet" to plead for his daughter's healing, demonstrating both respect and faith in Jesus' authority.

The act of bowing in the New Testament is also seen in the context of worship and divine acknowledgment. In Revelation 19:10, John falls at the feet of an angel to worship, though he is corrected and told to worship God alone. This highlights the importance of directing reverence appropriately, a principle consistent with the teachings of both Testaments.

Cultural and Theological Significance

Bowing to the ground in salutations within the biblical narrative underscores the importance of humility and recognition of authority, whether human or divine. It reflects a heart posture of submission and respect, integral to the relationships between individuals and between humanity and God. This practice serves as a reminder of the biblical call to honor those in authority and to approach God with reverence and humility.

Theologically, these acts of bowing and salutation point to the greater reality of God's ultimate authority and the appropriate response of worship and submission to Him. They illustrate the biblical principle that true honor and reverence are due to God, who is sovereign over all creation.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 33:3
And he passed over before them, and bowed himself to the ground seven times, until he came near to his brother.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Concerning Salutations and Recreations, &C.
... of the body, and such other salutations of that ... favour of princes, procured by
flattering, and often by worse ... angel twice refused this kind of bowing from John ...
/.../proposition xv concerning salutations and.htm