Salt

Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia

—a mineral abundant in Palestine, especially around the Dead Sea, and indispensable for seasoning and preserving food. Job asks, “Can that which is unsavory be eaten without salt?” (Job 6:6). Ezra 4:14 speaks literally of those who “eat the salt of the palace,” an idiom for receiving the king’s support and therefore owing him service.

Scripture cited

Job 6:6 Ezra 4:14

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