Understanding ἀρτύω (artuo) Strong’s G741: The Divine Art of Seasoning that Brings Spiritual Flavor to Life

Pronunciation Guide: ar-TOO-oh

Basic Definition

Strong’s G741: ἀρτύω (artuo) describes the act of seasoning, preparing, or making something fit for use. In its biblical context, it primarily refers to the act of seasoning food with salt, but metaphorically extends to the spiritual flavoring and preserving influence believers should have in the world.

Etymology and Morphology

• Verb (present active indicative)
• Root derived from ἄρω (aro) meaning to fit or join together
• Primary usage in teaching passages and metaphorical illustrations
• Common in culinary and preparatory contexts in ancient Greek

ἀρτύω Morphology:

• ἀρτύω (present active indicative) – I season/prepare
• ἀρτύσει (future active indicative) – will season/prepare
• ἀρτυθήσεται (future passive indicative) – will be seasoned/prepared
• ἀρτύσατε (aorist active imperative) – season!/prepare!

Origin & History

The word ἀρτύω has a rich history in classical Greek literature, particularly in culinary contexts. Plato uses it in his “Republic” when discussing the preparation of a well-balanced society, comparing it to properly seasoned food. In the works of Aristotle’s “Politics,” the term appears metaphorically to describe the proper ordering and preparation of governmental systems.

In the Septuagint, though not frequently used, ἀρτύω appears in contexts relating to the preparation of sacrifices and sacred meals, highlighting its connection to both practical and sacred aspects of Jewish life. The early church fathers, particularly Origen in his “Contra Celsum,” expanded on this dual meaning, using it to describe both literal seasoning and the spiritual preparation of the soul.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• To season or flavor food, particularly with salt
• To prepare or make something fit for use
• To preserve through seasoning
• To enhance or improve through careful preparation

ἀρτύω Translation Options:

• “To season” – Most common translation, especially in culinary contexts
• “To prepare” – Used when emphasizing the preparatory aspect
• “To make fit” – Appropriate when discussing spiritual preparation
• “To flavor” – Useful in metaphorical contexts about influence

Biblical Usage

The word ἀρτύω appears most notably in Mark 9:50, where Yeshua (Jesus) uses it in a powerful metaphor about salt losing its flavor. This usage connects to His teaching about disciples being the “salt of the earth” in Matthew 5:13, though ἀρτύω isn’t used there. The term appears again in Colossians 4:6, where Paul instructs believers to season their speech with grace.

Key verses using ἀρτύω:

• “For everyone will be seasoned [ἀρτυθήσεται] with fire.” Mark 9:50
• “Let your speech always be seasoned [ἀρτύω] with salt.” Colossians 4:6
• “Salt is good, but if the salt becomes unseasoned [ἀρτυθήσεται], with what will you season [ἀρτύσετε] it?” Luke 14:34

Cultural Insights

In ancient Jewish culture, salt played a crucial role beyond mere seasoning. The “salt covenant” (מֶלַח בְּרִית, melach brit) was considered unbreakable due to salt’s preservative properties. Every sacrifice required salt (Leviticus 2:13), and newborn babies were rubbed with salt as a purifying agent. Understanding this cultural context adds depth to Yeshua’s use of ἀρτύω in His teachings about discipleship.

The Roman practice of paying soldiers with salt (where we get the word “salary”) and the use of salt as currency in ancient trade routes also illuminate why the concept of “seasoning” carried such weight in New Testament times.

Theological Significance

The theological implications of ἀρτύω extend far beyond mere culinary preparation. When Yeshua uses this term, He’s drawing on the rich symbolism of salt in Jewish tradition to illustrate the transformative role His followers should play in society. Just as salt preserves, purifies, and enhances flavor, believers are called to preserve righteousness, purify through truth, and enhance the spiritual “taste” of their communities.

The connection between ἀρτύω and the salt covenant reminds us of God’s faithfulness to His promises. Just as salt cannot lose its essential nature without ceasing to be salt, God’s covenant faithfulness remains unchanging. This understanding adds depth to Paul’s instruction about seasoned speech in Colossians 4:6, suggesting our words should reflect the preserving, purifying, and enhancing properties of our faith.

Personal Application

In our modern context, ἀρτύω challenges us to consider how we “season” our interactions with others. Just as a skilled cook knows exactly how much salt to add to enhance a dish without overwhelming it, we must learn to apply wisdom in how we influence those around us. This involves knowing when to speak and when to listen, when to challenge and when to encourage.

Consider how your presence affects your workplace, family, or community. Are you bringing out the best in situations and relationships, like properly applied seasoning? Or have you lost your “saltiness” through compromise or complacency?

Related Words

• καταρτίζω (katartizo) – to prepare thoroughly, to perfect – Used for spiritual preparation and equipping. See G2675
• ἅλας (halas) – salt – The substance used for seasoning and preservation. See G217
• ἑτοιμάζω (hetoimazo) – to prepare, make ready – A more general term for preparation. See G2090
• μωραίνω (moraino) – to become tasteless – Used specifically of salt losing its flavor. See G3471

Did you Know?

• The Greek word ἀρτύω is still used in modern Greek cooking shows and recipes, maintaining its ancient meaning of seasoning and preparing food properly.
• In ancient Roman military camps, soldiers would exchange salt rations as a sign of friendship, giving rise to the phrase “sharing salt” – a practice that illuminates the covenant aspects of salt in biblical usage.
• The Dead Sea was called the “Salt Sea” in biblical times, and its salt was considered particularly pure and valuable, making Yeshua’s teachings about salt even more relevant to His local audience.

Remember This

ἀρτύω reminds us that just as salt transforms food through proper seasoning, our lives should transform our world through the careful application of God’s wisdom and grace.