What does the Bible say about hugging?
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The Bible does not give a specific command about hugging, but it commends affectionate love expressed with purity, self-control, and regard for others. Jesus tenderly received and blessed children in Mark 10:16, showing that appropriate physical affection can reflect compassionate care. Song of Solomon 2:6 and 8:6 portray the strong, covenantal affection belonging especially to marital love. Yet 1 Corinthians 7:1 calls believers to honor sexual holiness, so physical closeness should never stir temptation, exploit another person, or disregard wise boundaries. Above all, 1 Timothy 1:5 teaches that Christian conduct should flow from love arising from a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- 1 Timothy 1:5
but the end of the charge is love, out of a pure heart and a good conscience and unfeigned faith;
- Song of Solomon 8:6
Set me as a seal on your heart, As a seal on your arm; For love is strong as death. Jealousy is as cruel as Sheol; Its flashes are flashes of fire, A very flame of Yahweh.
- Mark 10:16
He took them in his arms, and blessed them, laying his hands on them.
- 1 Corinthians 7:1
Now concerning the things about which you wrote to me: it is good for a man not to touch a woman.
- Song of Solomon 2:6
His left hand is under my head. His right hand embraces me.
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