Mark 9:50
Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.
Mark 9:50 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse, found in the book of Mark in the Bible, discusses the importance of maintaining purity and integrity in one's life. Salt, in this context, symbolizes goodness, purity, and righteousness. Just as salt adds flavor and preserves food, goodness and righteousness bring positivity and stability to our lives. The verse warns against losing one's goodness and righteousness, as it is essential for bringing peace and harmony to our relationships with others. By having "salt in ourselves," we are encouraged to cultivate a righteous and moral character that will lead to peaceful interactions with those around us. Ultimately, the message of this verse is to strive for goodness, integrity, and peace in our lives, so that we may positively influence and maintain healthy relationships with others.
Theological Overview
In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of salt to teach about the importance of preserving righteousness and peace. Salt was a valuable commodity in Biblical times for its ability to season and preserve food. Jesus tells his disciples that salt is good, indicating that they are meant to bring flavor and preservation to the world through their actions and words. However, he warns that if the salt loses its saltiness, it is no longer effective in fulfilling its purpose. This may refer to losing one's spiritual fervor or moral integrity. Jesus encourages his followers to have salt in themselves, implying that they are to maintain their spiritual vitality and effectiveness in bringing about God's Kingdom. The call to have peace one with another reinforces the idea that salt is also a symbol of reconciliation and harmony. By preserving peace and unity among themselves, the disciples can continue to fulfill their mission of spreading the gospel and being a light in the world.
Mark 9:50 in other translations
American Standard Version
Salt is good: but if the salt have lost its saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace one with another.
World English Bible
Salt is good, but if the salt has lost its saltiness, with what will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.”
Geneva Bible (1599)
Salt is good: but if the salt be vnsauerie, wherewith shall it be seasoned? haue salt in your selues, and haue peace one with another.