Brief Overview of ἀσπασμός (G783: aspasmos)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: aspasmos

Root Words: The term ἀσπασμός (aspasmos) is derived from the verb ἀσπάζομαι (aspazomai), meaning “to greet” or “to embrace.”

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Primary Meanings:

• Greeting: A formal or informal expression of goodwill or respect towards someone.
• Salutation: An act of acknowledging or honoring someone, often with words or gestures.
• Embrace: A physical gesture of affection or respect, such as hugging.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἀσπασμός as “a greeting” or “a salutation,” referring to both verbal and physical expressions of goodwill. It encompasses formal and informal greetings, often used to convey respect or affection.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes ἀσπασμός as “a greeting” or “salutation,” noting its use in various contexts to denote a respectful or friendly acknowledgment.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary describes ἀσπασμός as “a salutation” or “greeting,” emphasizing its role in social interactions to express goodwill.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon defines ἀσπασμός as “a greeting” or “salutation,” used to describe acts of acknowledging or honoring someone in various contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀσπασμός as “a greeting” or “salutation,” focusing on its use as a form of verbal or physical acknowledgment.

Bible Verses:

• 2 Corinthians 13:12 (KJV): “Greet one another with an holy kiss. All the saints salute you.”
• Salute in this context is translated from ἀσπασμός, referring to a formal or affectionate greeting.
• 1 Peter 5:14 (KJV): “Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.”
• Greet here translates from ἀσπασμός, indicating an expression of goodwill.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Aristotle’s Rhetoric: The term ἀσπασμός appears in discussions about social manners and rhetoric, including the practice of greeting or saluting others.
• Plato’s Republic: ἀσπασμός is used in dialogues describing the formalities of social interaction, including how people greet or acknowledge each other.
• Homer’s Odyssey: The term is used to describe interactions between characters, including formal greetings and expressions of respect.

4. Summary:

ἀσπασμός (G783: aspasmos) signifies “a greeting” or “a salutation,” representing various forms of acknowledging or honoring someone. It covers both verbal expressions and physical gestures of goodwill. Its usage in biblical and classical Greek literature highlights its significance in social and formal contexts, reflecting the importance of courteous and respectful interactions. Understanding ἀσπασμός offers insight into the cultural practices of greeting and saluting in ancient Greek society.