What does 1 Thessalonians 5:26 mean?

Explanation

The verse "Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss" from 1 Thessalonians 5:26 is a directive from the Apostle Paul to the church of Thessalonica.

The instruction is straightforward in its literal sense: members of the church are encouraged to greet each other with a "holy kiss." The deeper meaning symbolizes a spiritual and fraternal bond among believers; it is a sign of love, unity, and mutual respect that should characterize Christian communities.

The holy kiss is supposed to be pure and sincere, devoid of hypocrisy or ulterior motives.

Historical Context

During the time Paul wrote his first letter to the Thessalonians, which is generally dated around A.D. 50-51, the gesture of a kiss was a common cultural practice in the Greco-Roman world, expressing greeting, respect, or affection among family and friends.

Within the early Christian community, the "holy kiss" became a liturgical and communal act that distinguished Christians' greetings from others by emphasizing the sanctity of their mutual love and fellowship.

Theological Insights

Christians across different traditions interpret this passage variously.

Some see the "holy kiss" as having been a specific cultural practice that may not necessarily require literal application today.

In contrast, others believe it endorses a principle of warm, affectionate greeting that can be translated into modern cultural expressions, like handshakes or hugs.

Theologically, all agree it emphasizes the importance of love and unity among the believers.

Practical Applications

The teaching of the holy kiss can be applied in daily life by encouraging modern Christians to show genuine affection and care for one another. This could be through a handshake, hug, or other culturally appropriate gestures, always acting with integrity and a sincere heart.

The verse also challenges believers to break down barriers of unforgiveness, prejudice, or division that might exist within the Christian community.

Cross-References

• Romans 16:16: "Salute one another with an holy kiss.

The churches of Christ salute you."

• 1 Corinthians 16:20: "All the brethren greet you.

Greet ye one another with an holy kiss."

• 2 Corinthians 13:12: "Greet one another with an holy kiss."
• 1 Peter 5:14: "Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity.

Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus.

Amen."

Language Study

The key phrase in the original Greek text is "ἐν φιλήματι ἁγίῳ" (en philēmati hagiō), with "φιλήματι" (philēmati) meaning "kiss," and "ἁγίῳ" (hagiō) meaning "holy." The use of "ἁγίῳ" suggests that the kiss is set apart, sanctified, or distinguished from mundane or profane expressions of affection.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures, a kiss was often a sign of greeting or honor. For example, in Roman culture, it was common to greet one another with a kiss on the cheek. Within Jewish culture, a kiss also had a place of honor as seen in the Old Testament.

The concept of a kiss as a sign of spiritual connection and respect can be compared to similar practices in other religions, where physical gestures signify deep communal or spiritual bonds.

Scientific Perspectives

From a sociological and psychological standpoint, greeting rituals like the holy kiss play a role in reinforcing social bonds and expressing group identity. Rituals can reduce social anxiety, increase feelings of belonging, and affirm shared values within a group.

While there isn't direct scientific research on the "holy kiss" itself, the functions of similar rituals align with these findings in social science.

Commentaries

Scholars and theologians suggest that the holy kiss should be understood within its cultural context.

John Stott, a well-known biblical scholar, emphasized that the essence of the directive is found in its spirit rather than its letter.

Matthew Henry's commentary noted that the apostolic salutation by the kiss denotes affection and lays a strong obligation of holy love on all who call themselves brethren.

In contemporary commentaries, there is general agreement that while the form of greeting may change, the underlying principles of love and unity are timeless and should be evident in Christian conduct.