1 Corinthians 16:20
What does 1 Corinthians 16:20 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 16:20 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Corinthians 16:20 means
Paul passes along greetings from all the brethren and instructs the Corinthians to greet one another with a holy kiss. This cultural sign, sanctified by holiness, expresses affectionate unity and reconciled relationships. It is not mere formality but a tangible reminder that believers are family in Christ. The command answers divisions and coldness by urging concrete warmth. Unity is not only confessed; it is displayed. By embedding such a practice within greetings from the wider church, Paul ties local affection to the larger body’s love, inviting Corinth to embody visibly the peace they share in the Lord.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000All the brethren salute you. Salute one another with a holy kiss.
KJV
King James Version · 1611All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with an holy kiss.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901All the brethren salute you. Salute one another with a holy kiss.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949All the brothers send their love to you. Give one another a holy kiss.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862salute you do all the brethren; salute ye one another in an holy kiss.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752All the brethren salute you. Salute one another with a holy kiss.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890All the brethren salute you. Salute one another with a holy kiss.
Context
This follows the regional greetings of verse 19, adding both a general salutation and a specific practice that enacts fellowship. Next, in verse 21, Paul will sign the letter with his own hand, authenticating the communication. Then comes the strong warning of verse 22 and, finally, blessings of grace and love in verses 23–24. The movement flows from mutual greetings, to personal signature, to solemn charge, and then to benediction.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Philemon 1:23
Epaphras, my fellow-prisoner in Christ Jesus, saluteth thee;
- Romans 16:16
Salute one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ salute you.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:26
Salute all the brethren with a holy kiss.
- Romans 16:23
Gaius my host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the treasurer of the city saluteth you, and Quartus the brother.
- Hebrews 13:24
Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you.
- 1 Peter 5:14
Salute one another with a kiss of love. Peace be unto you all that are in Christ.
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