Romans 16:16
What does Romans 16:16 mean?
A plain-English look at Romans 16:16 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Romans 16:16 means
Paul urges the believers to greet one another with a holy kiss—a culturally appropriate sign of sincere affection purified by the gospel. He then relays the greetings of all the churches of Christ, reminding the Romans that they belong to a larger family. The “holy” qualifier is key: their love must be warm yet pure, expressing unity in truth and holiness. By passing on greetings from other churches, Paul connects Rome to a broader fellowship, nurturing mutual encouragement. Unity is not merely local; the worldwide body recognizes and affirms one another in Christ.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Salute one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ salute you.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Salute one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ salute you.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Give one another a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send their love to you.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862salute one another in a holy kiss; the assemblies of Christ do salute you.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Salute one another with an holy kiss. All the churches of Christ salute you.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Salute one another with a holy kiss. All the assemblies of Christ salute you.
Context
After greeting many individuals and groups, Paul calls for a communal expression of sanctified affection. This caps the section on greetings and prepares a contrast: unity expressed rightly must be protected against divisive influences. In verses 17–18, Paul will issue a sober warning to watch out for those who undermine doctrine and cause stumbling. The chapter then turns to reassurance (verse 19), promise (verse 20), and additional greetings (verses 21–23) before closing in doxology (verses 25–27).
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 1 Corinthians 16:20
All the brethren salute you. Salute one another with a holy kiss.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:26
Salute all the brethren with a holy kiss.
- Acts 20:37
And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck and kissed him,
- 2 Corinthians 13:12
Salute one another with a holy kiss.
- 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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