φίλημα (philēma)
philēma
kiss
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun philēma simply means a kiss. In the New Testament, it appears in only seven verses, yet its usage reveals two distinct social contexts. In Luke’s Gospel, the word describes physical gestures within personal relationships, such as Judas identifying Jesus with a kiss (Luke 22:48) or the contrast between a sinful woman and a Pharisee regarding hospitality (Luke 7:45).
However, the term carries significant theological weight in the Pauline epistles. Here, philēma becomes the "holy kiss" (philēma hagion), a standard greeting among early Christians that signified mutual love and unity within the body of believers. Paul instructs churches to greet one another with this gesture in Romans 16:16, 1 Corinthians 16:20, 2 Corinthians 13:12, and 1 Thessalonians 5:26. This practice transformed a common cultural act into a visible token of Christian brotherhood.
The word derives from the verb phileō, meaning to love or show affection. By using philēma in these epistles, the writers emphasized that faith was not merely intellectual assent but involved tangible expressions of care. The early church viewed this physical greeting as essential for maintaining the bonds of peace and fellowship among believers.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word for 'kiss' in the New Testament bridges intimate personal moments and the daily life of the early church. In the Gospels, it marks deep relational bonds or betrayals, showing how physical gestures carry heavy emotional weight. Yet Paul expands this simple act into a command for believers to greet one another with a holy kiss.
This instruction transformed a common cultural custom into a visible sign of unity within the body of Christ. It reminds us that faith is not just an internal belief but requires tangible expressions of care and peace toward others. When we extend such gestures, we affirm our shared identity as brothers and sisters in Jesus.
Whether through a literal embrace or a heartfelt welcome today, this practice invites us to break down barriers and show genuine love. It encourages the church to remain connected, fostering an environment where every member feels valued and accepted in Christ.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a kiss4×
- with a kiss1×
- kiss.1×
- A kiss1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- φιλήματι5×
- φίλημά1×
- φιλήματι.1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 22:48
But Jesus said to him, “Judas, do you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?”
Jesus uses this term to highlight the profound betrayal by Judas, contrasting a gesture of intimacy with an act of treachery.
-
Romans 16:16
Greet one another with a holy kiss. The assemblies of Christ greet you.
Paul establishes the holy kiss as a standard practice for all assemblies, emphasizing mutual love and unity among believers.
-
I Peter 5:14
Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace be to all of you who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Peter concludes his letter with this greeting, linking the physical act of kissing directly to peace and belonging in Christ Jesus.