Topical Encyclopedia The term "Salt Sea" in the Bible refers to what is commonly known today as the Dead Sea, a significant geographical and historical landmark in the biblical narrative. The Salt Sea is mentioned in several passages throughout the Old Testament, serving as a boundary marker and a symbol of desolation and judgment.Geographical Context The Salt Sea is located in the Jordan Rift Valley, bordered by modern-day Jordan to the east and Israel and the West Bank to the west. It is one of the saltiest bodies of water on earth, with a salinity level that prevents most aquatic life from thriving, hence its modern name, the Dead Sea. The high mineral content of the water and surrounding area has been noted for its therapeutic properties since ancient times. Biblical References The Salt Sea is first mentioned in Genesis 14:3, where it is described as the location of the battle between the kings of the region: "All these latter kings joined forces in the Valley of Siddim (that is, the Salt Sea)." This passage highlights the strategic importance of the area in ancient times. In Numbers 34:12, the Salt Sea is delineated as part of the boundary of the land promised to the Israelites: "Then the border will go down along the Jordan and end at the Salt Sea. This will be your land, defined by its borders on all sides." This establishes the Salt Sea as a significant geographical marker in the division of the Promised Land. The Salt Sea is also mentioned in the context of divine judgment. In Deuteronomy 3:17, it is referred to as part of the territory given to the tribes of Reuben and Gad: "The Arabah also, with the Jordan as its border, from Kinnereth to the Sea of the Arabah, the Salt Sea, below the slopes of Pisgah on the east." The desolate nature of the Salt Sea region serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. Symbolism and Theological Significance The Salt Sea is often associated with themes of judgment and desolation. The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, which is traditionally believed to have occurred in the region surrounding the Salt Sea, underscores this symbolism. The narrative of Lot's wife turning into a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:26) further emphasizes the theme of divine retribution and the consequences of disobedience. In Ezekiel 47:8-9, the prophet envisions a future transformation of the Salt Sea, where fresh water will flow into it, bringing life and healing: "He said to me, 'This water flows out to the eastern region and goes down into the Arabah. When it enters the sea, the salty water there becomes fresh. Wherever the river flows, there will be swarms of living creatures, and there will be many fish, because this water flows there and makes the salt water fresh; so where the river flows, everything will live.'" This prophecy symbolizes the restorative power of God and the hope of renewal and redemption. Cultural and Historical Impact Throughout history, the Salt Sea has been a source of valuable minerals and a site of trade and commerce. Its unique properties have made it a place of interest for various cultures and civilizations. In biblical times, the Salt Sea region was a crossroads for trade routes, contributing to its strategic importance. In summary, the Salt Sea holds a multifaceted role in the biblical narrative, serving as a geographical landmark, a symbol of judgment, and a prophetic image of restoration. Its presence in Scripture underscores the themes of God's sovereignty, justice, and the hope of redemption for His people. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 14:3All these were joined together in the vale of Siddim, which is the salt sea. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 34:12 Deuteronomy 3:17 Joshua 3:16 Joshua 12:3 Joshua 15:2 Greek 251. hals -- salt. ... Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: hals Phonetic Spelling: (halce) Short Definition: salt Definition: salt. Cognate: 251 -- the sea; a -water body ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/251.htm - 6k 3882. paralios -- by the sea, the sea coast 231. halieus -- a fisherman Library The Sea of Sodom Mattidia is Baptized in the Sea. Apostolic Exhortation Fragment ix. Of Abraham and Lot. ... Strong Son of God A Nation's Struggle for a Home and Freedom. And in that Day this Thought Presented Itself to his Disciples... Chapter xix False Ambition Versus Childlikeness. The Disciple, -- Sometimes this Question is Asked, "Since God is ... Resources Why was Lot's wife turned into a pillar of salt? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the importance of the Dead Sea in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Brigham Young? | 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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