2 Kings 2:20 “‘Bring me a new bowl,’ he said, ‘and put salt in it.’ So they brought it to him.”
Extended Explanation:
In this verse, Elisha responds to the request from the people of Jericho to heal their water. He instructs them to bring a new bowl and to put salt in it. The new bowl symbolizes something clean and pure, something that has not been contaminated by the previous bad water. The salt represents the healing power of God, a substance often associated with purification and preservation in biblical times. Elisha is preparing to perform a miracle to purify the water and restore the land’s fertility. While the actions seem simple, they symbolize God’s ability to use ordinary things for extraordinary purposes.
Historical Context:
Jericho had a long and complicated history in Israel. After its destruction during Joshua’s conquest, it was rebuilt despite the curse Joshua had placed on it (Joshua 6:26). The bad water in Jericho may have been seen as part of that curse, making the land barren. Salt, which was often used in purification rituals in the ancient world, plays a key role here. In the Bible, salt is also associated with covenant and preservation (Leviticus 2:13), reinforcing the idea that this act is not just about physical healing but a spiritual renewal for the city.
Theological Implications:
This verse highlights the theme of purification and renewal, showing that God can heal and restore what is broken. Elisha’s command to use a new bowl and salt points to the idea that God often requires a clean vessel through which He works. The new bowl may symbolize a fresh start, while the salt represents God’s ongoing work of purification in the lives of His people. This event also demonstrates that healing comes through obedience to God’s instructions, no matter how simple they may seem. Elisha’s miracle teaches that God’s power works through physical symbols and acts of faith.
Literary Analysis:
The use of everyday objects, like a bowl and salt, creates a contrast between the simplicity of the materials and the profound nature of the miracle. The command to bring a new bowl emphasizes the importance of purity in God’s work. This sets up the miracle in the next verse, building anticipation as Elisha prepares to heal the water. The instructions are straightforward, yet they carry deep symbolic meaning. The choice of salt, in particular, reinforces the idea of preservation and life-giving power, elements that will soon be reflected in the miracle itself.
Biblical Cross-References:
- Leviticus 2:13 – The command to season all grain offerings with salt, symbolizing God’s covenant and preservation.
- Numbers 18:19 – Salt as a symbol of an everlasting covenant between God and His people.
- Matthew 5:13 – Jesus calls His followers the “salt of the earth,” emphasizing the role of His people in preserving and bringing life to the world.
Application for Today’s Christian:
This verse teaches Christians about the importance of being open vessels for God’s work. Just as the new bowl was used in the healing of Jericho’s water, we too must present ourselves as pure vessels for God’s purposes. The simple act of using salt reminds us that God can use ordinary things to accomplish extraordinary outcomes. It challenges believers to trust in God’s power to bring healing and renewal, even in situations that seem hopeless. Additionally, it encourages Christians to take steps of obedience, trusting that God can work through even the simplest acts of faith.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God:
God’s love is shown in His willingness to heal and restore what is broken. The bad water and barren land of Jericho were significant problems for the people, but God, through Elisha, intervenes to bring healing and renewal. This verse shows that God is not distant from the practical needs of His people. He cares about their well-being and provides solutions that bring life and abundance. God’s love is also reflected in His desire for purity—symbolized by the new bowl—reminding us that He calls us into a life of holiness and transformation.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ:
This passage connects to Jesus’ teaching on being the “salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13). Just as salt was used here to purify and heal, Jesus calls His followers to be agents of purification and renewal in the world. The idea of using salt to restore the water and land points forward to Christ’s work of restoring and healing humanity. Jesus, like Elisha, uses ordinary people and objects to accomplish extraordinary things. His life and ministry bring spiritual healing and renewal to those who are broken and in need of restoration.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:
- In what areas of your life do you need God’s healing and renewal, much like the people of Jericho needed their water restored?
- How does the symbolism of the new bowl and salt challenge you to live a life of purity and obedience to God’s call?
- What simple steps of faith is God asking you to take, trusting that He can use them for something much greater than you can imagine?