What does "holy kiss" mean?

Definition and Biblical References

The phrase “holy kiss” appears in several New Testament passages, most notably in Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 16:20; 2 Corinthians 13:12; and 1 Thessalonians 5:26. Additionally, 1 Peter 5:14 mentions “Greet one another with a kiss of love.” In each of these occurrences, the term underscores a personal, familial greeting shared among believers in Christ.

In the Berean Standard Bible, Romans 16:16 reads: “Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send you greetings.” This direct exhortation reflects a relational warmth and unity intended to characterize the body of believers. Similar admonitions can be found in the other letters, consistently instructing the early church to share this outward sign of spiritual fellowship.

Historical and Cultural Context

In first-century Jewish and Greco-Roman societies, a kiss was broadly recognized as a customary greeting among friends and family. Cultural anthropologists note that such forms of greeting were expressions of respect, love, or kinship. Adding the descriptor “holy” (“hagios” in the original Greek) indicates that this kiss was to be free of ulterior motives and characterized by moral purity.

Archaeological findings, including frescoes and inscriptions in early Christian catacombs, suggest that intimate greetings among believers were part of their worship gatherings. Church fathers like Justin Martyr (2nd century AD) and Tertullian (late 2nd to early 3rd century AD) refer to a “kiss of peace” among believers, especially tied to celebrations of the Eucharist. These writings attest to the common and accepted practice of believers exchanging a kiss as a gesture of both fellowship and reverence for God’s family.

Meaning and Purpose

1. Expression of Unity and Fellowship

The emphasis on “holy” stands as a safeguard against the kiss devolving into a mere social ritual or worse, an inappropriate advance. Instead, it signifies a consecrated act, showing shared faith and commitment to one another in Christ. In Romans 12:10, believers are admonished: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another.” A holy kiss embodies this principle, a tangible demonstration of devotion and honor.

2. Symbol of Peace and Reconciliation

Since the earliest days of the church, the holy kiss served as a sign of peace and forgiveness among brothers and sisters in Christ. Before partaking in the Lord’s Supper, it was common in some church traditions to offer the “kiss of peace,” reinforcing love and reconciliation (see Matthew 5:23–24 for the principle of reconciling before offering one’s gift at the altar).

3. Affirmation of Familial Bond

The New Testament frequently employs familial language—believers are called “brothers and sisters”—underscoring the spiritual reality of belonging to God’s household. A familial gesture such as a kiss reaffirms that believers hold a genuine bond transcending social and cultural divisions (Galatians 3:28).

Practical Considerations Through the Ages

Over centuries, Christian communities have practiced the holy kiss differently, influenced by cultural customs and acceptable forms of greeting. Eastern Orthodox liturgies often retain a “kiss of peace” to this day, and some Western traditions adapt it into handshakes or holy embraces to convey the same significance.

The key principle remains the same: the greeting should be sincere, pure, and reverent, reflecting the holiness and unity of the fellowship of believers. Enduring manuscript evidence for the New Testament letters—supported by textual critics like Dr. James White and Dr. Dan Wallace—demonstrates that instructions for believers to greet one another with a holy kiss have consistently been preserved, highlighting the act’s enduring importance in Christian community life.

Practical Application in Modern Church Life

1. Demonstrate Warmth Without Offense

Different cultures express affection in various ways. While a literal kiss on the cheek may be common in some regions, others might find that unfamiliar. Modern churches often encourage a handshake, hug, or verbal expression of greeting to fulfill the apostolic instruction without causing discomfort.

2. Maintain Holiness and Respect

Regardless of how believers choose to greet one another, the spirit behind the holy kiss—purity, sincerity, and unity—must remain. In 1 Thessalonians 5:26, Paul says simply, “Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss.” The focus is on genuine love, absent any pretense or impure motivation.

3. Affirm Still-Relevant Spiritual Meaning

Though cultural norms shift, the core biblical teaching endures: believers are part of God’s family and should greet one another in a way that reflects Divine love. The holy kiss, whether kept in its literal form in certain cultures or symbolized in a handshake or hug in others, serves as a consistent reminder of Christ’s love and the oneness of His body.

Conclusion

The “holy kiss” stands as a culturally rooted yet theologically profound expression of unity, fellowship, and holiness among believers. Rooted in Scripture and supported by numerous historical references and archaeological indications of early Christian practice, it underscores the shared identity of those in Christ. Whether expressed literally or adapted to contemporary norms, the spiritual principle remains: greet one another in love, purity, and the bond of faith that springs from salvation in Christ.