ἀσπασμός

a greeting, salutation

Definition

The Greek word ἀσπασμός refers to a greeting or salutation, typically involving spoken words, gestures like a kiss or embrace, or a written message. In the New Testament, it most often describes the respectful greetings given to religious leaders in public (Matthew 23:7, Mark 12:38, Luke 11:43). However, in the Gospel of Luke, it takes on a special meaning in the Nativity narrative, where the angel Gabriel's greeting (Luke 1:29) and the greeting between Mary and Elizabeth (Luke 1:41, 44) signify a divine blessing or recognition, moving beyond mere social courtesy.

Biblical Usage

ἀσπασμός is used 10 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels and once by Paul. It appears frequently in Jesus' critiques of the scribes and Pharisees who love respectful greetings in marketplaces (Matthew 23:7, Mark 12:38, Luke 20:46). Luke uniquely uses it for the sacred greetings surrounding Jesus' birth (Luke 1:29, 41, 44). Paul uses it once, referring to his own handwritten greeting at the close of 1 Corinthians (1 Corinthians 16:21).

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἀσπάζομαι (aspazomai, G782), meaning 'to greet, welcome, or salute.' Contrary to the provided data, it is not from ἀ- + 'spasmos'; that is a false etymology. The root relates to showing affection or recognition, with cognates implying a drawing close or embrace.

Semantic Range

This word highlights a tension between human honor and divine recognition. Jesus condemns those who seek ἀσπασμός for social status, contrasting it with humble service. In Luke, the divine greetings underscore that Jesus and John the Baptist are recognized and blessed by God even before birth, framing their missions. Understanding this range—from vain social ritual to God-ordained blessing—enriches reading of these passages.

In the first-century Greco-Roman and Jewish world, greetings were formal and significant acts that acknowledged social status and fostered community. They often involved specific gestures (like a kiss or bow) and set phrases. Public greetings for religious teachers were marks of honor. This contrasts with today's often casual 'hello,' making Jesus' criticism of seeking such greetings a pointed critique of pride and hypocrisy.

χαίρω (chairō, G5463) — a common verb for 'to rejoice' or 'greet,' often used as a salutation in letters; φίλημα (philēma, G5370) — specifically a kiss, a physical act often part of a greeting.

Word Details

Scripture References