Salt
Salt served ancient purposes of both preserving food and sealing agreements, which is why 'a covenant of salt' became shorthand for an enduring, unbreakable bond between God and his people. Jesus calls his disciples 'the salt of the earth,' calling them to a preserving, purifying influence in a decaying world - and warning that salt which loses its saltiness is good for nothing but to be trampled underfoot. Elisha also used salt to heal a poisoned spring at Jericho, a small but vivid sign that God's power can purify even a source of death. Together these images make salt a symbol of enduring covenant faithfulness and a transforming presence in the world.
Details
- Symbolizes
- Preservation, covenant loyalty, purifying influence
Old Testament Type
The covenant of salt; salt used by Elisha to heal the waters at Jericho
New Testament Fulfillment
Disciples called to be 'the salt of the earth' - a preserving, purifying presence in the world
Key Chapters
Key Passages
You Are the Salt of the Earth
Matthew 5:13
Jesus calls his disciples salt - a preserving, purifying presence meant to influence the world around them, with a warning against losing that distinct character.
13e are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
Did You Know?
A lasting agreement was called 'a covenant of salt.'
Jesus called his followers 'the salt of the earth.'
Elisha healed a poisoned spring by throwing in salt.
Salt both preserves and purifies - two of its symbolic meanings.