In biblical terms, "The Greeting" refers to the various ways in which individuals in the Scriptures express welcome, acknowledgment, or blessing to one another. Greetings in the Bible are not merely social niceties but often carry theological and relational significance, reflecting the values and beliefs of the biblical community.

Old Testament Greetings

In the Old Testament, greetings often involve physical gestures and spoken words that convey respect, peace, and blessing. A common Hebrew greeting is "Shalom," meaning peace, which encompasses a wish for wholeness and well-being. For example, when David sends messengers to Nabal, he instructs them to greet him with peace: "And thus you shall say, ‘Long life to you! Peace to you, to your house, and to all that is yours!’" (1 Samuel 25:6).

Physical gestures such as bowing or prostrating oneself are also significant in Old Testament greetings, indicating respect and submission. When Jacob meets Esau after many years, he bows to the ground seven times as he approaches his brother (Genesis 33:3).

New Testament Greetings

In the New Testament, greetings take on a more explicitly Christian character, often incorporating elements of grace and peace. The Apostle Paul frequently begins his epistles with a greeting that includes a blessing of grace and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. For instance, in his letter to the Romans, Paul writes, "Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 1:7).

The New Testament also emphasizes the importance of greeting one another with love and unity. In Romans 16:16, Paul instructs the believers to "Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send you greetings" . This practice of the "holy kiss" symbolizes the familial bond and unity among believers.

Jesus and Greetings

Jesus' interactions often include significant greetings that reveal His mission and character. After His resurrection, Jesus greets His disciples with the words, "Peace be with you" (John 20:19), offering them reassurance and the peace that comes from His victory over death.

Jesus also teaches about the nature of greetings in the context of humility and sincerity. In the Sermon on the Mount, He warns against the hypocritical greetings of the scribes and Pharisees, who love to be greeted with honor in public places (Matthew 23:7).

Cultural and Theological Implications

Greetings in the Bible reflect the cultural norms of the time, yet they also transcend mere custom to convey deeper theological truths. They often serve as expressions of God's covenantal relationship with His people, embodying themes of peace, grace, and community. The biblical greeting is a reminder of the believer's call to live in harmony and love, reflecting the character of Christ in all interactions.

In summary, biblical greetings are rich with meaning, serving as expressions of peace, respect, and divine blessing. They are integral to the fabric of biblical relationships, reflecting the values of the covenant community and the transformative power of the Gospel.