Kissing was a very ancient custom among Israelites and other peoples of the region. It was a sign of affection between relatives, between friends and between lovers (Genesis 29:11; Song of Song of Solomon 1:2; Song of Solomon 8:1; Matthew 26:48; Luke 15:20). It was also a sign of homage to a king (1 Samuel 10:1; Psalms 2:12; cf. Matthew 26:49) or devotion to an idol (1 Kings 19:18; Hosea 13:2). In New Testament times kissing became the customary form of greeting between Christians (Romans 16:16; 1 Peter 5:14).