from Α (as a particle of union) and a presumed form of σπάω; to enfold in the arms, i.e. (by implication) to salute, (figuratively) to welcome:--embrace, greet, salute, take leave.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`) originates from a particle of union (ἀ-) and a presumed form of σπάω (spáō), meaning "to draw" or "to pull." This etymological root points to its primary literal sense: "to enfold in the arms" or "to embrace." From this physical act, the word develops a rich semantic range, extending to social and relational actions. Its core meaning encompasses:
1. **Embrace:** A physical act of drawing someone close, signifying affection, welcome, or farewell.
2. **Salute/Greet:** A verbal or gestural acknowledgment of another person, expressing recognition, respect, or fellowship.
3. **Welcome:** To receive someone hospitably, indicating acceptance and inclusion.
4. **Take Leave/Bid Farewell:** To say goodbye, often with an accompanying gesture of acknowledgment or affection.
The underlying concept is one of personal engagement, recognition, and the establishment or acknowledgment of a relationship, whether intimate or formal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`) appears frequently in the New Testament, predominantly in the Gospels and Pauline Epistles, illustrating its importance in personal and communal interactions.
In the Gospels, it often denotes personal greetings:
* In [[Luke 1:40]], Mary "greeted" Elizabeth, leading to the spiritual stirring of John the Baptist in his mother's womb, highlighting the spiritual significance that could accompany such a greeting.
* Jesus's disciples were instructed not to "greet" anyone on the road in [[Luke 10:4]], not as a prohibition against politeness, but to emphasize the urgency and singular focus of their mission, avoiding time-consuming social formalities common in that era.
In the book of Acts, ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`) is used for both greetings and farewells, often with emotional weight:
* Paul "took leave" of the disciples in [[Acts 20:1]] and again in [[Acts 21:6]], indicating a formal yet often affectionate parting.
* The reception of Paul and his companions by the brothers in Jerusalem is described as "greeting" them in [[Acts 21:7]], signifying acceptance and fellowship.
The most extensive use of ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`) is found in the Pauline Epistles, particularly in the closing remarks, where Paul extends greetings to numerous individuals and groups:
* In [[Romans 16]], Paul lists over two dozen individuals and groups to "greet," demonstrating the extensive network of relationships within the early church and Paul's personal connection to its members. This practice underscores the importance of mutual recognition and affirmation within the body of Christ.
* Similarly, in [[1 Corinthians 16:19-20]], [[Philippians 4:21-22]], and [[Colossians 4:10-15]], Paul conveys greetings from himself and his companions, and encourages believers to "greet one another with a holy kiss," signifying a bond of pure affection and unity.
A unique figurative usage appears in [[Hebrews 11:13]], where the patriarchs are said to have "greeted" the promises from afar. Here, ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`) conveys a spiritual embrace, an act of faith whereby they welcomed and accepted God's future promises, even without having seen their fulfillment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`) intersects with several other significant Greek terms and theological concepts:
* **φίλημα (philēma, `{{G5370}}`):** Meaning "a kiss," this noun is frequently associated with ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`), especially in the phrase "greet one another with a holy kiss" ([[Romans 16:16]]; [[1 Corinthians 16:20]]; [[2 Corinthians 13:12]]; [[1 Peter 5:14]]). The kiss, in this context, is not merely a social custom but a symbol of genuine affection, purity, and unity within the Christian community.
* **φιλέω (phileō, `{{G5368}}`):** "To love," often with affection, implying fondness or friendship. While broader than ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`), it often describes the underlying sentiment that motivates a heartfelt greeting or embrace.
* **χαίρω (chairō, `{{G5463}}`):** "To rejoice" or "to be glad," frequently used as a formal greeting (e.g., "Hail!"). While distinct in its primary meaning, it shares the function of a salutation, though ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`) carries a more personal and often physical connotation.
* **καταφιλέω (kataphileō, `{{G2705}}`):** "To kiss much" or "to kiss tenderly." This intensified form of "kissing" suggests a deeper level of affection or, in the case of Judas's betrayal ([[Matthew 26:49]]), a deceptive show of intimacy.
Concepts related to ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`) include:
* **Fellowship (κοινωνία, koinōnía, `{{G2842}}`):** The act of greeting reinforces the shared life and bond among believers.
* **Hospitality (φιλοξενία, philoxenía, `{{G5381}}`):** Welcoming strangers or fellow believers is a practical outworking of the command to greet and receive.
* **Love (ἀγάπη, agapē, `{{G26}}`):** The "holy kiss" and the genuine nature of Christian greetings are expressions of divine love at work within the community.
### Theological Significance
The seemingly simple act of greeting or embracing, conveyed by ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`), carries profound theological significance within the New Testament.
Firstly, it underscores the **importance of interpersonal relationships and community** within the body of Christ. The extensive lists of greetings in Paul's letters are not mere formalities but serve to build and maintain spiritual bonds, acknowledging each member's value and place in the church. This practice fosters a sense of belonging and mutual care, essential for Christian fellowship (κοινωνία).
Secondly, the call to "greet one another with a holy kiss" elevates the act beyond mere social custom to a **sacred expression of Christian love and unity**. The term "holy" implies purity of intention and affection, distinguishing it from worldly greetings. It signifies a spiritual bond in Christ that transcends social status, ethnicity, or gender, embodying the radical equality and love found in the Gospel. This act promotes peace and reconciliation within the community.
Thirdly, the use of ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`) in the context of farewells highlights the **pastoral care and enduring connection** between apostles and the churches they served. Paul's taking leave often involved deep emotion, reflecting the genuine bonds of affection and responsibility he felt for the believers.
Finally, the figurative use in [[Hebrews 11:13]], where the patriarchs "greeted" the promises, reveals a deeper theological dimension. It speaks to the **embrace of faith**, where believers, even from afar, spiritually welcome and affirm God's word and future redemptive work. This shows that the concept of "greeting" extends beyond human interaction to an active posture of trust and acceptance toward divine truth.
### Summary
The Greek word ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`), originating from the concept of enfolding in the arms, encompasses a rich semantic range including embracing, greeting, welcoming, and taking leave. In the New Testament, it is predominantly used to describe personal and communal interactions, frequently appearing in the greetings and farewells of the Pauline Epistles. Its usage highlights the profound importance of interpersonal relationships, mutual recognition, and the building of community within the early church. When accompanied by the "holy kiss," it signifies pure affection, unity, and the sacred bond shared by believers in Christ. Theologically, ἀσπάζομαι (aspázomai, `{{G782}}`) is far more than a social formality; it is an expression of Christian love, fellowship, and a tangible manifestation of the Body of Christ. Its figurative use also extends to an active embrace of faith in God's promises, demonstrating its multifaceted significance in biblical thought.
TRV