Luke 7:45 (KJV)

What does Luke 7:45 mean?

Luke 7:45 records Jesus pointing out that his host did not greet him with a kiss, while a woman has not stopped kissing his feet since he arrived. This highlights the contrast between the host’s lack of hospitality and the woman’s deep respect and affection for Jesus.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to Simon the Pharisee during a meal at Simon’s house. The woman, known for her sinful reputation, has been showing Jesus great honor by kissing his feet—a gesture of humility and devotion. Jesus uses this comparison to show Simon how the woman’s actions demonstrate genuine love and gratitude, while Simon’s own welcome was lacking in the usual signs of respect.

The Greek behind Luke 7:45

• φίλημα (philēma, G5370) — "kiss": In this context, this word refers to a customary greeting of respect or affection, not a romantic gesture. Jesus points out Simon’s failure to offer this basic sign of welcome.
• καταφιλέω (kataphileō, G2705) — "kiss": This verb means "to kiss fervently or repeatedly." The Greek here emphasizes that the woman’s actions were not a single act but ongoing, highlighting her devotion.
• οὐ (ou, G3756) — "no" / "not": The repeated use of this word draws a sharp contrast between Simon’s omission and the woman’s continuous action.
• πόδες (podes, G4228) — "feet": Mentioning the feet underlines the woman’s humility, as touching or kissing someone’s feet was a sign of deep respect and lowliness.

Why Luke 7:45 matters

• Luke 7:45 helps clarify the cultural expectations of hospitality in Jesus’ time, showing that greeting with a kiss was a normal sign of respect for a guest.
• The verse draws attention to the woman’s actions as an example of sincere love and repentance, in contrast to Simon’s formal but distant attitude.
• This moment is central to Jesus’ teaching in the passage, as he uses it to challenge assumptions about who truly honors God and what genuine devotion looks like.