Kissing is mentioned within the context of numerous narratives and teachings in the Bible. Often, it carries important symbolic meaning, illustrating relationships, behaviors, and societal norms. Our summary of what the Bible says about kissing will examine some of these instances and the messages they convey.
What Significance Does Kissing Hold in the Bible?
Kissing in the Bible is a physical act often employed to symbolize deeper emotional, social, and spiritual aspects. Kissing is used to express love, respect, reconciliation, betrayal, and greetings among other sentiments. Each instance of kissing in the Bible demonstrates shared intimacy or kinship, enhances an element of human interaction, or underscores a part of God’s teaching.
How Does the Bible Characterize Romantic Kissing?
The Bible celebrates romantic love and includes references to kissing between lovers. The Song of Solomon, for instance, is replete with passionate exchanges between spouses and frequently cites romantic kissing. In these contexts, kissing is portrayed as a natural and beautiful expression of love in the confines of a committed relationship. The Bible upholds the sanctity and joy of such interactions while continually reminding readers of the need for commitment and faithfulness in romantic relationships.
Where in the Bible is Kissing Used as a Greeting?
The Bible frequently mentions kisses as a form of greeting, particularly in the New Testament. The ‘holy kiss’ or ‘kiss of peace’ was a common cultural practice in early Christian communities. This offering of a kiss upon greeting or parting was a way to express fraternal love, peace, and unity within the Christian community. The Bible encourages this act as an outward symbol that strengthens fellowship among believers and fosters a sense of community.
Why Does the Bible Include Instances of Betrayal by Kissing?
Among the more infamous references to kissing in the Bible is the ‘kiss of betrayal’ given by Judas Iscariot to Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. This kiss, a common gesture of respect and affection, was tragically employed by Judas as a signal to identify Jesus to His captors. This event underscores how an act, inherently neutral or even positive, can be corrupted to serve destructive purposes. The Bible uses this painful example to caution readers against deceit, treachery, and the misuse of trust.
When Does the Bible Use Kissing to Signify Reconciliation?
The Bible uses scenes of kissing to illustrate powerful moments of forgiveness and reconciliation. One of its more poignant examples is found in the parable of the Prodigal Son. On his return after having squandered his inheritance, the prodigal son is met by his father who ‘runs to him, throws his arms around him, and kisses him’, an emotional display that signifies forgiveness, joyous reunion, and reconciliation. Such examples underscore the Bible’s teachings about forgiveness, love, and the redeeming nature of God.
Below is our full list of bible verses on kissing (King James Version – KJV) provided in ranked order.
Most Popular Bible Verses About Kissing
Psalm 85:10
“10 Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.”
Related Themes: Marriage Peace Falling In Love Mercy
Song of Solomon 1:2
“2 Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine.”
Romans 16:16
“16 Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.”
Luke 7:45
“45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.”
Proverbs 24:26
“26 Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer.”
Related Themes: Telling The Truth
Proverbs 27:6
“6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.”
Related Themes: Criticism Friendship Dating Telling The Truth Reputation
Hebrews 13:4
“4 Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.”
Genesis 29:10-12
“10 And it came to pass, when Jacob saw Rachel the daughter of Laban his mother’s brother, and the sheep of Laban his mother’s brother, that Jacob went near, and rolled the stone from the well’s mouth, and watered the flock of Laban his mother’s brother.11 And Jacob kissed Rachel, and lifted up his voice, and wept.12 And Jacob told Rachel that he was her father’s brother, and that he was Rebekah’s son: and she ran and told her father.”
1 Peter 5:14
“14 Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.”
Related Themes: Charity
Psalm 2:12
“12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.”
1 Samuel 20:41
“41 And as soon as the lad was gone, David arose out of a place toward the south, and fell on his face to the ground, and bowed himself three times: and they kissed one another, and wept one with another, until David exceeded.”
Related Themes: Tears
Ruth 1:14
“14 And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.”
