Topical Encyclopedia The Salt Sea, commonly referred to as the Dead Sea in modern terminology, is a significant geographical and historical feature in biblical narratives. It is located in the Jordan Rift Valley, bordered by modern-day Jordan to the east and Israel and Palestine to the west. The Salt Sea is renowned for its high salinity, which prevents most aquatic life from thriving, hence the name "Dead Sea."Biblical References and Significance The Salt Sea is mentioned several times in the Bible, often serving as a geographical landmark. In Genesis 14:3, it is referred to in the context of the battle of the kings: "All these latter kings joined forces in the Valley of Siddim (that is, the Salt Sea)." This passage highlights the Salt Sea as a boundary marker in the ancient Near East. In the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, the Salt Sea is frequently mentioned as a territorial boundary. For instance, in Joshua 15:5, the border of the tribe of Judah is described: "The eastern border was the Salt Sea, as far as the mouth of the Jordan." Similarly, in Joshua 18:19, the Salt Sea marks the boundary for the tribe of Benjamin. The Salt Sea also holds eschatological significance. In Ezekiel 47:8-9, the prophet describes a vision of healing waters flowing from the temple, transforming the Salt Sea into fresh water: "He said to me, 'These waters go out toward the eastern region and go down into the Arabah. When they enter the sea, the salty waters there become fresh. Every living creature that swarms will live wherever the river flows, and there will be a great multitude of fish because these waters flow there and make the salt water fresh; so wherever the river flows, everything will flourish.'" Cultural and Historical Context The Salt Sea has been a site of interest throughout history due to its unique properties and mineral wealth. In ancient times, it was a source of bitumen, used for various purposes, including embalming in Egypt. The surrounding region, known as the Valley of Siddim, is associated with the biblical cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, which were destroyed by divine judgment (Genesis 19). The Salt Sea's inhospitable environment and its association with judgment and desolation have made it a powerful symbol in biblical literature. Its transformation in Ezekiel's vision serves as a metaphor for divine restoration and renewal. Modern Relevance Today, the Salt Sea continues to be a site of scientific and tourist interest. Its mineral-rich waters and mud are sought after for their therapeutic properties. However, the sea is rapidly shrinking due to water diversion and mineral extraction, raising environmental concerns. In biblical studies, the Salt Sea remains a point of interest for its historical, geographical, and theological implications, providing insight into the ancient world and the biblical narrative. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Salt SeaSALT SEA See DEAD SEA. Greek 3882. paralios -- by the sea, the sea coast ... sea coast. From para and hals; beside the salt (sea), ie Maritime -- sea coast. see GREEK para. see GREEK hals. (paraliou) -- 1 Occurrence. 3881, 3882. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3882.htm - 6k 251. hals -- salt. 231. halieus -- a fisherman Library The Sea of Sodom Apostolic Exhortation Mattidia is Baptized in the Sea. A Nation's Struggle for a Home and Freedom. Fragment ix. Of Abraham and Lot. ... Chapter xiv Chapter xix I Bind unto Myself Today A New Years Sermon to the Young 'The Waters Saw Thee; they were Afraid' Resources What is a salt covenant? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He described His followers as the salt of the earth? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that believers are to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16)? | GotQuestions.org Salt: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Salt of the Saving Efficacy of the Ekklesia of Christ Salt used for Ratifying Covenants Salt used for Seasoning Sacrifices Salt used for Strengthening New-Born Infants Salt used in Ratifying Covenants Salt: (Salted With Fire) Preparation of the Wicked For Salt: (Without Savour) Graceless Professors Salt: All Animal Sacrifices Were Required to be Seasoned With Salt: Characterised As Good and Useful Salt: Elisha Throws, Into the Pool of Jericho, to Purify It Salt: Liberally Afforded to the Jews After the Captivity Salt: Lost Its Savour when Exposed to the Air Salt: Lot's Wife Turned Into a Pillar of Salt: Miracles Connected With: Elisha Healed the Bad Water With Salt: Miracles Connected With: Lot's Wife Turned Into a Pillar of Salt: Often Found: Near the Dead Sea Salt: Partaking of Another's a Bond of Friendship Salt: Places Sown With, to Denote Perpetual Desolation Salt: Places where It Abounded Barren and Unfruitful Salt: The Valley of, Celebrated for Victories Related Terms Meat-offering (111 Occurrences) |
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