Topical Bible: Salt: Partaking of Another's a Bond of Friendship

◄ Salt: Partaking of Another's a Bond of Friendship ►

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In biblical times, salt held significant cultural and spiritual symbolism, often representing purity, preservation, and covenant. One of the lesser-known but profound aspects of salt in the biblical context is its role in symbolizing friendship and loyalty when partaken together.

The concept of sharing salt as a bond of friendship is rooted in ancient Near Eastern customs. In these cultures, sharing a meal seasoned with salt was more than just a social activity; it was a sacred act that signified trust and mutual respect. This practice is reflected in various biblical narratives and teachings, where salt becomes a metaphor for enduring relationships and covenants.

In the Old Testament, the "covenant of salt" is mentioned explicitly in passages such as Numbers 18:19 and 2 Chronicles 13:5. Numbers 18:19 states, "All the holy contributions that the Israelites present to the LORD I give to you and your sons and daughters as a permanent statute. It is a covenant of salt forever before the LORD for you and your offspring." Here, the covenant of salt signifies an everlasting agreement, underscoring the unbreakable nature of God's promises to His people.

Similarly, in 2 Chronicles 13:5 , we read, "Do you not know that the LORD, the God of Israel, has given the kingship of Israel to David and his descendants forever by a covenant of salt?" This passage highlights the enduring nature of God's covenant with David, using salt as a symbol of permanence and fidelity.

The New Testament also alludes to the significance of salt in relationships. In Mark 9:50 , Jesus teaches, "Salt is good, but if the salt loses its saltiness, with what will you season it? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with one another." Here, Jesus uses salt metaphorically to encourage His followers to maintain their distinctiveness and integrity, fostering peace and unity within the community. The exhortation to "have salt among yourselves" can be understood as a call to preserve the bonds of friendship and fellowship through mutual respect and commitment.

The act of sharing salt, therefore, transcends mere culinary practice; it becomes a profound expression of covenantal friendship. In a world where agreements and relationships can be transient, the biblical imagery of salt serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of true friendship and loyalty. The sharing of salt signifies a mutual commitment to uphold and honor one another, reflecting the divine covenant that God establishes with His people.

In summary, the biblical symbolism of salt as a bond of friendship underscores the importance of loyalty, trust, and enduring relationships. Through the covenant of salt, both in the Old and New Testaments, believers are reminded of the sacredness of their commitments to one another and to God, reflecting the eternal nature of divine promises.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezra 4:14
Now because we have maintenance from the king's palace, and it was not meet for us to see the king's dishonor, therefore have we sent and certified the king;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Footnotes
... the only consolation which one learned Roman could administer to another on the ... same
desires and aversions, that, in a word is strong friendship"Sallust in ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/footnotes.htm

part i
... For instance, in partaking of the life-giving mysteries of ... imagine either in yourself
or in another anything guilty ... but do you not live in friendship with the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm