ἀσπασμός (aspasmos)
aspasmos
salutation
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 10 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun aspasmos refers to a greeting or salutation, serving as the concrete expression of the verb aspazomai. In the New Testament, it denotes the formal act of welcoming someone, whether through spoken words or written correspondence. This term captures the social ritual of acknowledgment that was central to first-century interpersonal relationships.
The sources distinguish between two primary modes of its use: oral and written. Oral greetings appear frequently in the Gospels, such as when Jesus warns against seeking honors like "greetings in the marketplaces" (Matthew 23:7). Written greetings are noted in the epistles, where authors like Paul and Colossas mention their personal signatures to authenticate letters (1 Corinthians 16:21; Colossians 4:18).
This word highlights the tangible nature of early Christian community. It was not merely a polite phrase but a recognized social bond. The variation between spoken encounters in daily life and epistolary closeness across distances shows how aspasmos functioned as a bridge between physical presence and spiritual connection.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word aspasmos reminds us that a simple greeting carries weight. In the first century, it was not just polite chatter but a real bond between people. When we say hello today, we are continuing that ancient practice of acknowledging someone’s worth and presence.
Jesus warned against using greetings for status, like being called 'Rabbi' in public (Matthew 23:7). He wanted His followers to value humility over honor. Yet, when used with love, a greeting builds community. It shows we see each other as God sees us—valuable and connected.
Paul often ended his letters with a personal note (1 Corinthians 16:21). This small act kept the church united across distances. Your words can bridge gaps too. A kind hello or a thoughtful message can strengthen bonds, showing grace in everyday moments.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 10 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- greeting5×
- greetings4×
- salutation1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀσπασμὸς4×
- ἀσπασμοὺς4×
- ἀσπασμὸν1×
- ἀσπασμοῦ1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 23:7
the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi, Rabbi’ by men.
Jesus uses this word to warn against seeking public honor through elaborate greetings.
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Luke 1:41
When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit moves at the sound of Mary’s greeting, showing its spiritual power.