Topical Bible: Salutations were Given by Inferiors to Their Superiors

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In biblical times, salutations were an important aspect of social interaction, reflecting the hierarchical structures within society. The act of greeting or saluting a superior was not merely a formality but a demonstration of respect, honor, and acknowledgment of authority. This practice is evident throughout the Scriptures, where various forms of salutations are recorded, often highlighting the cultural norms and expectations of the time.

Old Testament Examples

In the Old Testament, salutations often involved gestures of deep respect. For instance, when Joseph's brothers came to Egypt during the famine, they bowed down before him, fulfilling the dreams Joseph had as a youth (Genesis 42:6). This act of bowing was a common form of salutation, signifying submission and respect to someone of higher status.

Another example is found in the account of Ruth. When Boaz arrived at his field, he greeted the harvesters with a blessing, "The LORD be with you," to which they responded, "The LORD bless you" (Ruth 2:4). This exchange reflects a mutual respect, yet it also underscores Boaz's position of authority as the landowner.

New Testament Examples

In the New Testament, salutations continue to play a significant role in social interactions. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, often begins with a salutation that includes a blessing or prayer for grace and peace, as seen in Romans 1:7: "To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" . These greetings set a tone of respect and spiritual kinship, acknowledging the authority of God and the apostleship of Paul.

Jesus Himself addressed the issue of salutations in a teaching moment with His disciples. In Matthew 23:7, He criticized the Pharisees for loving "greetings in the marketplaces and to be called 'Rabbi' by others" . Here, Jesus highlighted the potential for salutations to become a source of pride and self-exaltation, rather than genuine respect.

Cultural and Social Context

The cultural context of biblical salutations often involved physical gestures such as bowing, kneeling, or even prostration, especially when addressing kings or prophets. For example, when the prophet Samuel anointed Saul as king, Saul's initial response was one of humility and deference (1 Samuel 9:21).

In the Greco-Roman world of the New Testament, salutations could also include a kiss, as seen in the instruction to "Greet one another with a holy kiss" (Romans 16:16). This practice was a sign of fellowship and unity within the early Christian community, transcending social hierarchies.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the practice of giving salutations to superiors underscores the biblical principle of honoring those in authority. Romans 13:1-7 emphasizes the importance of submitting to governing authorities, as they are instituted by God. Salutations, therefore, are not merely social customs but are rooted in the acknowledgment of God's ordained order.

Furthermore, the respectful greetings given to superiors can be seen as a reflection of the believer's attitude toward God Himself. Just as individuals are called to honor earthly authorities, they are also called to honor God with reverence and submission, recognizing His ultimate authority over all creation.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 47:7
And Joseph brought in Jacob his father, and set him before Pharaoh: and Jacob blessed Pharaoh.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The People among whom we Labour (Continued).
... motive, even when full expression has been given to the ... In manner of life, in
salutations, in offerings of ... with profound reverence, but if they were to rise ...
/.../life and work in benares and kumaon 1839-1877/chapter xxix the people among.htm