Overview
Salutations in Scripture encompass both verbal greetings and physical gestures of respect. Whether bowing, embracing, or speaking words of blessing, these customs reflected the social hierarchy, spiritual reverence, and relational warmth valued in biblical culture. Proper greetings honored God's design for human interaction.
Key Scriptures
"And behold, Jesus met them and said, 'Greetings!' And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him" (Matthew 28:9, ESV).
"When Abram saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth" (Genesis 18:2, ESV).
"Blessed are you by the LORD, my daughter. You have made this last kindness greater than the first" (Ruth 3:11, ESV).
Application
Christians should greet others with genuine warmth and respect, using salutations that honor both God and the image-bearer before you.