In the fascinating exploration of the history and meanings of kissing across the different cultures of antiquity, we discover a gesture of intimacy and love that transcends temporal and geographical boundaries. But where does this practice, which is so widespread and loaded with various meanings, come from?
The first written records of kissing date back to ancient Mesopotamia, around 2500 BC. Clay tablets from this era describe two types of kisses: the friendly, parental kiss, as well as the romantic-intimate kiss.
The friendly kiss was a gesture of respect or submission, sometimes involving the kissing of the feet or the ground. In contrast, romantic kissing was reserved for married couples and was considered inappropriate for individuals who were unmarried or in religious roles.
Kissing was also present in ancient India, as evidenced by texts dating from around 1500 BC. Vedic Sanskrit texts and the Kama Sutra describe different forms of kissing, suggesting that it was a well-known practice.
Some anthropologists believe that the Greeks learned about kissing through their encounters with Indian culture during the conquests of Alexander the Great.
The Romans, on the other hand, were particularly fond of kissing and developed distinct categories to define it. They had osculum (a kiss on the cheek), basium (a kiss on the lips) and savolium (a deep kiss).
The kiss in ancient Rome served many functions, from greeting friends and family to sealing legal agreements to expressing romantic love. Roman weddings, like today, often included a kiss to seal the couple’s union.
The kiss also had significant religious and social connotations. In early Christianity, the “holy kiss” was a common greeting among believers, symbolizing a transfer of spiritual energy.
Over time, kissing continued to evolve, influenced by social norms, cultural practices and individual preferences. Today, kissing remains a complex and multifaceted behavior.
In addition to its cultural implications, the kiss has scientific repercussions. It triggers the release of hormones such as dopamine and oxytocin, promoting feelings of pleasure and attachment. This biological response helps explain why kissing can be so rewarding and play a crucial role in building and maintaining relationships.
In conclusion, the kiss, which we find in the various cultures of Antiquity, represents much more than a simple gesture of affection. Full of history, symbolism and deep meanings, the kiss remains an essential part of the human experience, testifying to our innate need for connection and emotional expression.