Topical Bible: Covenant of Men With Men by Salting

Bible > Topical > Covenant of Men With Men by Salting

◄ Covenant of Men With Men by Salting ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of covenants in the Bible is a significant theme that underscores the relationship between God and humanity, as well as between individuals. One particular form of covenant mentioned in the Scriptures is the "Covenant of Men With Men by Salting." This covenant is rooted in the ancient Near Eastern practice of using salt as a symbol of agreement and fidelity.

Biblical Context and Symbolism

Salt, in biblical times, was a valuable commodity, often used for preservation and purification. Its enduring quality made it an apt symbol for the permanence and binding nature of covenants. In the Bible, salt is frequently associated with covenants, as seen in passages like Leviticus 2:13, which states, "You are to season each of your grain offerings with salt. You must not omit from your grain offering the salt of the covenant of your God; you are to add salt to each of your offerings."

The "Covenant of Men With Men by Salting" is not explicitly detailed in a single narrative but is inferred from various passages that highlight the use of salt in agreements and relationships. Salt's preservative qualities symbolize the enduring and unbreakable nature of the covenant, emphasizing loyalty and faithfulness between the parties involved.

Examples and Applications

One of the most notable examples of a covenant involving salt is found in 2 Chronicles 13:5, where it is mentioned, "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 underscores the eternal and unbreakable nature of God's promise to David, using salt as a metaphor for the lasting nature of the covenant.

In the context of human relationships, the use of salt in covenants can be seen as a commitment to uphold one's word and maintain integrity in agreements. The practice of sharing salt as part of a covenant ritual would serve as a tangible reminder of the promises made and the seriousness of the commitment.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the "Covenant of Men With Men by Salting" reflects the broader biblical theme of faithfulness and the importance of keeping one's promises. It serves as a reminder of the sacredness of covenants and the expectation that individuals will honor their commitments, just as God is faithful to His covenants with humanity.

The use of salt in covenants also points to the transformative power of God's grace, which preserves and purifies. As believers, the call to be "the salt of the earth" (Matthew 5:13) echoes the responsibility to live out the values of the kingdom, including faithfulness, integrity, and commitment in all relationships.

Cultural and Historical Insights

In ancient cultures, sharing a meal seasoned with salt was often a sign of friendship and alliance. This practice extended to covenant-making, where salt would be used as a symbol of the agreement's durability. The cultural significance of salt in the ancient Near East provides a deeper understanding of its use in biblical covenants, highlighting the seriousness with which such agreements were regarded.

In summary, the "Covenant of Men With Men by Salting" is a profound biblical concept that illustrates the enduring nature of agreements and the expectation of faithfulness in human relationships. Through the symbolism of salt, the Bible communicates the importance of integrity and the sacredness of covenants, both between individuals and in the divine-human relationship.

Nave's Topical Index

Leviticus 2:13
And every oblation of your meat offering shall you season with salt; neither shall you suffer the salt of the covenant of your God to be lacking from your meat offering: with all your offerings you shall offer salt.
Nave's Topical Index

Numbers 18:19
All the heave offerings of the holy things, which the children of Israel offer to the LORD, have I given you, and your sons and your daughters with you, by a statute for ever: it is a covenant of salt for ever before the LORD to you and to your seed with you.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Chronicles 13:5
Ought you not to know that the LORD God of Israel gave the kingdom over Israel to David for ever, even to him and to his sons by a covenant of salt?
Nave's Topical Index