The Greek word aspasmós, represented by G783, means a greeting or salutation. It appears 10 times in 10 unique verses in the New Testament. The term is derived from ἀσπάζομαι and is used to describe a greeting offered either in person or through written correspondence.
In the gospels, G783 is used in two primary contexts. First, it signifies a powerful, personal greeting, such as the salutation of Mary to Elisabeth, which caused the babe to leap in her womb (Luke 1:41, Luke 1:44). Mary herself was troubled by the angel's salutation, indicating that such greetings could carry profound weight Luke 1:29. Second, it is used in rebukes against the scribes and Pharisees who sought public honor through greetings in the markets (Matthew 23:7, Mark 12:38, Luke 20:46). In the epistles, Paul uses the word to provide a personal closing, authenticating his letters with a salutation written by his own hand (1 Corinthians 16:21, Colossians 4:18, 2 Thessalonians 3:17).
Several related words help clarify the context and motive behind a salutation:
- G5368 philéō (to be a friend to, have affection for): This word describes the motive of the hypocrites who love to pray publicly Matthew 6:5 and the scribes who love greetings in the markets Luke 20:46, indicating a desire for public affection and esteem.
- G58 agorá (market-place, street): This term specifies the public location where religious leaders desired to receive greetings, highlighting their wish for open recognition (Matthew 23:7, Mark 12:38, Luke 11:43).
- G5495 cheír (hand): This word is directly linked to the authenticity of a written salutation. Paul emphasizes that his greeting is "with mine own hand," making it a personal and verifiable sign (1 Corinthians 16:21, 2 Thessalonians 3:17).
- G4410 prōtokathedría (chief seat): Often mentioned alongside the desire for greetings, this word denotes a sitting first or preeminence. The desire for both greetings and the highest seats in synagogues revealed a craving for status (Luke 11:43, Luke 20:46).
The theological weight of G783 is revealed in how it is used.
- Authenticity and Authority: Paul's handwritten salutation served as a "token in every epistle," a personal signature to confirm the letter's origin and protect against forgeries 2 Thessalonians 3:17. It was a mark of apostolic authority.
- A Warning Against Pride: The repeated condemnation of those who love greetings in public places serves as a stark warning. The issue was not the greeting itself, but the heart's desire for public honor and recognition from men rather than from God (Luke 11:43, Matthew 23:7).
- A Conduit of Spiritual Blessing: A salutation is shown to be more than a social custom. Mary's greeting to Elisabeth was a moment of divine significance, prompting a reaction from John the Baptist in the womb and filling Elisabeth with the Holy Ghost Luke 1:41. This demonstrates that a greeting can be a vehicle for blessing.
In summary, G783 is a term that carries significant meaning beyond a simple "hello." It functions as a formal mark of authentication in written letters, a focus of temptation for those seeking public praise, and a powerful, spiritually charged interaction between individuals. Whether written by hand or spoken aloud, a salutation in scripture often reveals the character and motives of the one giving it.
TRV