Topical Bible: Salutations: Often Accompanied by Falling on the Neck and Kissing

◄ Salutations: Often Accompanied by Falling on the Neck and Kissing ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, salutations often carried deep emotional and relational significance. The act of falling on the neck and kissing was a common expression of affection, reconciliation, and familial love. This gesture is depicted in several biblical narratives, illustrating the depth of relationships and the importance of personal connection in biblical times.

Old Testament Instances

One of the earliest examples of this form of salutation is found in the account of Jacob and Esau. After years of estrangement, Jacob feared Esau's wrath but was met with unexpected grace. Genesis 33:4 recounts, "But Esau ran to meet Jacob, embraced him, fell on his neck, and kissed him. And they wept." This moment of reconciliation highlights the power of forgiveness and the restoration of brotherly bonds.

Another significant instance is found in the account of Joseph. When Joseph revealed his identity to his brothers, who had sold him into slavery, he demonstrated forgiveness and love. Genesis 45:14-15 states, "Then Joseph threw his arms around his brother Benjamin and wept, and Benjamin wept as they embraced. Joseph kissed each of his brothers as he wept over them. And afterward his brothers talked with him." This act of falling on the neck and kissing signified the healing of past wounds and the renewal of family unity.

New Testament Instances

In the New Testament, the parable of the Prodigal Son provides a poignant example of this salutation. When the wayward son returned home, his father ran to him, filled with compassion. Luke 15:20 describes, "So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still in the distance, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him." This powerful image of a father's love and forgiveness mirrors God's grace towards repentant sinners.

The Apostle Paul also experienced such affectionate greetings. In Acts 20:37 , as Paul bid farewell to the Ephesian elders, "They all wept openly as they embraced Paul and kissed him." This emotional farewell underscores the deep bonds formed within the early Christian community and the heartfelt expressions of love and respect among believers.

Cultural and Theological Significance

The act of falling on the neck and kissing in biblical salutations reflects the cultural norms of the ancient Near East, where physical expressions of affection were integral to social interactions. These gestures conveyed not only personal affection but also social and familial reconciliation. They were often public displays, reinforcing communal ties and shared values.

Theologically, these salutations can be seen as manifestations of divine love and grace. They serve as tangible expressions of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the restoration of relationships, mirroring the spiritual truths of God's redemptive work in humanity. The physical act of embracing and kissing symbolizes the breaking down of barriers and the welcoming of individuals into a renewed relationship, whether it be familial, communal, or spiritual.

In summary, salutations involving falling on the neck and kissing in the Bible are rich with emotional and spiritual meaning. They illustrate the importance of reconciliation, the power of forgiveness, and the depth of love that characterizes both human relationships and the divine-human relationship.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 33:4
And Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and kissed him: and they wept.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 45:14,15
And he fell on his brother Benjamin's neck, and wept; and Benjamin wept on his neck.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 15:20
And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook