“And every oblation of thy meat offering shalt thou season with salt; neither shalt thou suffer the salt of the covenant of thy God to be lacking from thy meat offering: with all thine offerings thou shalt offer salt.”
Leviticus is a book in the Old Testament of the Bible that provides detailed instructions and regulations for the Israelites concerning their worship, offerings, and daily life. In this particular verse, God gives instructions regarding the use of salt in the offerings brought to Him.
Significance of the meat offering:The meat offering, also known as the grain offering or cereal offering, was one of the five main types of sacrifices or offerings prescribed in Leviticus. It was a voluntary offering presented to God and consisted of grain, oil, and frankincense (Leviticus 2:1).
Salt as a seasoning:God instructs that every meat offering should be seasoned with salt. In ancient times, salt was a common seasoning used to enhance the flavour of food. Symbolically, salt represents purity, preservation, and covenantal agreement.
Salt as a symbol of the covenant:God specifically mentions “the salt of the covenant of thy God” in this verse. Salt was often used as a sign of the covenant between God and His people. In various instances, salt was included in covenant ceremonies, serving as a reminder of the eternal nature of the covenant and the faithfulness of both parties.
The significance of not lacking salt:God emphasizes that the salt of the covenant should not be lacking from the meat offering. This highlights the importance of honouring and maintaining the covenantal relationship with God. It implies that the offerings presented to God should be made in accordance with His prescribed regulations, with nothing essential missing.
Salt in all offerings:The instruction to offer salt with all offerings signifies its overarching significance in the worship and sacrifices of the Israelites. Salt was not limited to the meat offering alone but was to be included in all their offerings. This further emphasizes the importance of the covenant relationship with God and the need for faithfulness and dedication in their worship.
In summary, Leviticus 2:13 instructs the Israelites to season every meat offering with salt, symbolising the covenant between God and His people. It serves as a reminder of the eternal nature of the covenant and the faithfulness required from both parties. The use of salt in all offerings emphasises the significance of the covenant relationship and the need for obedience and devotion in their worship.
