Idolaters frequently kissed the hand as a part of their worship (Job 31:26, 27), or the object itself (Hosea 13:2). Idols in heathen temples are still kissed.
Seven thousand.
It does not pay even for a prophet of God to endeavor to number the faithful in Israel. Elijah had twice expressed himself to the effect that he alone was left of the devout in Israel (vs. 10, 14).