Topical Bible: Salutations: Often Accompanied by Embracing and Kissing the Feet

◄ Salutations: Often Accompanied by Embracing and Kissing the Feet ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, salutations were more than mere verbal greetings; they were expressions of respect, reverence, and affection, often accompanied by physical gestures such as embracing and kissing. These acts were deeply embedded in the cultural and religious practices of the ancient Near East and are frequently mentioned in the Scriptures.

Embracing and Kissing in the Old Testament

The act of embracing and kissing as a form of salutation is evident in several Old Testament narratives. In Genesis 33:4, when Jacob and Esau are reunited after years of estrangement, the Scripture records, "But Esau ran to meet Jacob, embraced him, fell on his neck, and kissed him. And they both wept." This poignant moment highlights the reconciliation and deep familial bond between the brothers.

Similarly, in 2 Samuel 20:9, Joab greets Amasa with a kiss, though with deceitful intentions. "Joab said to Amasa, 'Is it well with you, my brother?' And Joab took Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him." This incident underscores the cultural norm of greeting with a kiss, even as it serves as a backdrop for treachery.

New Testament Practices

In the New Testament, the practice of greeting with a kiss is further emphasized, particularly within the early Christian community. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently 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." This instruction is repeated in 1 Corinthians 16:20, 2 Corinthians 13:12, and 1 Thessalonians 5:26, indicating that the holy kiss was a widespread and accepted practice among early Christians, symbolizing unity and brotherly love.

Kissing the Feet as an Act of Reverence

Kissing the feet, a gesture of profound humility and reverence, is notably illustrated in the New Testament. In Luke 7:37-38, a sinful woman approaches Jesus while He is dining at a Pharisee's house. The passage describes her actions: "When a sinful woman from that town learned that Jesus was dining there, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind Him at His feet weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears and wipe them with her hair. Then she kissed His feet and anointed them with the perfume." This act of devotion and repentance is a powerful demonstration of the woman's faith and recognition of Jesus' divine authority.

Cultural and Theological Significance

The gestures of embracing and kissing, particularly kissing the feet, carry significant cultural and theological implications. They reflect the values of honor, submission, and love that are central to biblical teachings. In a society where social hierarchies were pronounced, these acts served as equalizers, expressing mutual respect and the breaking down of barriers between individuals.

In the context of the early church, these salutations reinforced the sense of community and fellowship among believers. They were tangible expressions of the love and unity that Christ commanded His followers to exhibit. As such, these practices were not merely cultural customs but were imbued with spiritual meaning, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel in the lives of individuals and communities.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 28:9
And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 7:38,45
And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.
Torrey's Topical Textbook