ἀσπασμός
aspasmos
salutation
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word ἀσπασμός (aspasmos) is a salutation, indicating a greeting or a form of acknowledgment. It is used 10 times in the Bible, suggesting its importance in ancient Greek culture and early Christian practice. In its usage, ἀσπασμός often conveys a sense of respect, affection, or formal recognition. It can be a greeting between friends, family members, or even strangers. For example, in Acts 15:23, the apostles send greetings to the Gentile believers, using ἀσπασμός to extend their goodwill and solidarity. The significance of ἀσπασμός lies in its role as a social bond, bridging relationships and fostering community. In a world where personal connections were crucial for survival and well-being, a salutation like ἀσπασμός served as a way to acknowledge and strengthen ties between individuals and groups.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
10 total occurrences across the text
the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi, Rabbi’ by men.
Mark 12:38In his teaching he said to them, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk in long robes, and to get greetings in the marketplaces,
Luke 1:29But when she saw him, she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered what kind of salutation this might be.
Luke 1:41When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
Luke 1:44For behold, when the voice of your greeting came into my ears, the baby leaped in my womb for joy!
Luke 11:43Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the best seats in the synagogues, and the greetings in the marketplaces.
Luke 20:46“Beware of those scribes who like to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the marketplaces, the best seats in the synagogues, and the best places at feasts;
1 Corinthians 16:21This greeting is by me, Paul, with my own hand.
Colossians 4:18The salutation of me, Paul, with my own hand: remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen.
2 Thessalonians 3:17The greeting of me, Paul, with my own hand, which is the sign in every letter: this is how I write.