Brief Overview of ἀλίσγημα (G234)

The Greek word ἀλίσγημα (alisgēma) refers to “salt,” particularly in its sense as a seasoning or preservative. The term is used in the context of seasoning food or preserving it with salt. It captures the essence of salt’s role in adding flavor or extending the longevity of food. The term’s usage is metaphorical in the biblical text, representing the influence and impact of believers in the world.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G234 ἀλίσγημα (alisgēma): According to Strong’s Concordance, this term means “salt” and is derived from the Greek root ἅλς (hals), which means “salt.” Strong’s indicates that ἀλίσγημα is used in the New Testament in contexts where salt is either a literal substance for seasoning or a metaphorical representation of influence and preservation.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer’s Lexicon provides a detailed explanation of ἀλίσγημα as “salt” used for seasoning. It discusses how the term reflects the practical use of salt in ancient times and its symbolic significance in biblical texts. The lexicon underscores the role of salt as an essential commodity for preserving and enhancing food, and how this symbolism is applied to the role of believers in maintaining moral and spiritual integrity.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• The LSJ Lexicon describes ἀλίσγημα as “salt,” providing insight into its usage in classical Greek literature. The lexicon highlights the term’s application in both everyday contexts and its metaphorical use in literature, reinforcing the idea of salt as a preservative and flavor enhancer.

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• Although focused on Hebrew terms, the BDB Lexicon supports the interpretation of similar Greek terms in their metaphorical contexts. It aligns with the understanding that salt, including ἀλίσγημα, is used symbolically to denote influence, preservation, and the enhancement of spiritual and moral values.

In summary, ἀλίσγημα (alisgēma) refers to “salt,” and its usage in the New Testament reflects both its literal function as a seasoning and its metaphorical role in illustrating the influence and preservative nature of believers. Strong’s Concordance, Thayer’s Lexicon, the LSJ Lexicon, and insights from the BDB Lexicon collectively support this definition and highlight the term’s significance in biblical contexts.