Book of 1 Corinthians - Chapter 16 - Verse 21

Paul's greeting with his own hand holds significant meaning in the context of biblical history. In the ancient world, it was common practice for individuals to employ a scribe or secretary to write letters on their behalf. However, in this verse, Paul makes a point to personally sign off on his letters with his own hand. This personal touch served to authenticate the message as genuinely coming from him, adding weight to his words and reinforcing his authority as an apostle. By taking the time to physically write out his salutation, Paul demonstrated his care and concern for the recipients of his letters, showing that he valued their relationship and wanted to connect with them on a more personal level. This act of signing his letters also served as a way to distinguish his authentic writings from any false teachings or forgeries that may have been circulating at the time. Overall, Paul's signature at the end of his letters symbolizes his dedication to spreading the gospel and nurturing the faith of believers.

In the verse "The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand," the phrase "with mine own hand" is particularly significant within a theological interpretation. This phrase indicates the personal nature of the letter being written by the apostle Paul. In ancient times, letters were often written by scribes or assistants, but Paul makes it clear that he is personally writing this salutation. This personal touch adds sincerity and authenticity to his message, emphasizing the importance and seriousness of his words. The use of "mine own hand" also signifies the care and attention Paul put into each word he wrote, highlighting the depth of his message and the significance of his communication with the intended recipients. Thus, this verse not only serves as a formal greeting but also reveals Paul's personal investment in sharing his thoughts and beliefs with the readers.