The Salt and the Light : Its combination and Symbolism

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Tenth Week :  Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 5:13-16*

*First Reading : 2 Cor 1:18-22*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 119:129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135*

*The Salt and the Light : Its combination and Symbolism*

*1) The great Combination*

In the Gospel—particularly in Matthew 5:13–16, part of the Sermon on the Mount—Jesus calls His followers both *the salt of the earth* and *the light of the world.*

This combination is rich in symbolism and deeply significant in Jesus’ understanding of the role of His disciples in the world.

*2) Salt of the Earth*

*The salt has the following characteristic*

*A) Preservation* 

In ancient times, salt was primarily used to preserve food, especially meat. By calling His followers salt, Jesus implies that they are to prevent moral and spiritual decay in the world.

*B) Flavor*

Salt enhances flavor, symbolizing how believers should bring out the goodness and richness of life through godly living.

*C) Purity*

Salt was associated with purity due to its whiteness and use in ceremonial offerings (Leviticus 2:13). Disciples are called to live pure, sincere lives.

*D) Value*

Salt was highly valued; Roman soldiers were sometimes paid in salt (the origin of the word “salary”).

Jesus’ followers are immensely valuable in God's plan for the world.

*3) Light of the World*

Light symbolises the following things 

*A) Guidance*

Light shows the way, dispelling darkness. Disciples are meant to guide others toward truth and righteousness.

*B) Witness*

Light symbolizes the visible witness of good works and moral clarity. Believers should live in a way that points others to God.

*C) Visibility*

A city on a hill is seen by all; likewise, disciples cannot hide their faith—they are to be publicly faithful.

*4)  The Power of the Combination*

The combination of salt and light suggests a dual responsibility:

*Salt (inward influence)*

Transformation from within the world—preserving truth, enhancing goodness, purifying hearts.

*Light (outward influence)*

Visible impact through action, testimony, and righteousness—guiding others to glorify God.

Together, they represent a holistic approach to discipleship: being (salt) and doing (light). 

It’s about character and conduct, integrity and influence.

*5) Final Thought*

Jesus uses these metaphors to urge His followers not to blend into society but to stand out as moral and spiritual agents of change. 

Their lives are to *preserve what is good* and *shine what is true* in a world, which desperately needs both these values*

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*