Salt in the Bible

Salt in the Bible refers to the numerous mentions and symbolic uses of salt in the Bible. Salt is used metaphorically to signify permanence, loyalty, durability, fidelity, usefulness, value, and purification.

Old Testament

In the Old Testament, salt is often a symbol of a lasting covenant, as in the case of God's covenant with the Israelites: "It is a covenant of salt forever, before the Lord with you and your descendants with you" (Numbers 18:19).

Salt was also used in ancient Hebrew temple offerings (Leviticus 2:13), and in the laying of a city's foundations (Ezra 4:14).

New Testament

In the New Testament, salt is used as a metaphor in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount: "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot" (Matthew 5:13).

Symbolism

The symbolism of salt in the Bible is rich and varied. It is often associated with purity, preservation, and covenant loyalty. In the New Testament, the metaphor of the followers of Jesus as the "salt of the earth" implies a call to influence the world in a positive way.

See also

• Covenant (biblical)
• Sermon on the Mount
• Symbolism in the Bible