Book of 2 Samuel - Chapter 15 - Verse 5

The verse 'And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him.' (Genesis 48:10) from the Bible tells the story of Jacob blessing his grandsons, Ephraim and Manasseh. In this particular verse, Jacob displays his deep love and affection for his grandsons by embracing and kissing them as a form of showing reverence and blessing them. This act of Jacob taking them in his arms and kissing them symbolizes his acceptance and approval of the two boys as his own. It also signifies the passing on of his blessings to the next generation and the importance of family ties in the Biblical narrative. By understanding the cultural significance of this gesture in ancient times, we can appreciate the emotional depth and significance of this moment as Jacob blesses his descendants before his passing.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse, "And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him.", we can see the significance of the actions described. The act of kissing in ancient times held great significance and was often used as a gesture of respect, honor, or even submission. In this context, the act of kissing symbolizes a display of reverence and adoration towards the individual mentioned. It also serves to highlight the authority and power that the individual holds over others, as those who approach him are shown to offer their respect through this physical gesture. Furthermore, the image of taking someone and kissing them can also be seen as a metaphor for the welcoming and acceptance of those who come close, signifying a sense of camaraderie and belonging. Through this interpretation, the verse conveys themes of hierarchy, honor, and intimacy, emphasizing the dynamics of relationships and interactions among individuals.