Salt of The Earth: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 30, 2023

The phrase "salt of the earth" refers to a person or group of people who are considered to be of great worth and reliability. This term is often used to describe individuals who are humble, honest, and hardworking, essentially the 'backbone' of society.

In short:

"Salt of the earth" refers to a person who is considered to be good, honest, and dependable. They are the kind of person society can rely upon.

What Does "Salt of the Earth" Mean?

The idiom "salt of the earth" represents individuals or groups characterized by their humility, integrity, and hard work. If you describe someone as the "salt of the earth," you admire them for being straightforward, reliable, and of great value to society.

Key aspects of the idiom's meaning include:

  • Represents humble, hardworking individuals
  • Associated with integrity and honesty
  • Denotes a sense of essential value to society

Where Does "Salt of the Earth" Come From?

The phrase "salt of the earth" comes from the Bible, specifically from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:13. In this passage, Jesus says:

"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot."

In this passage, Jesus is using salt as a metaphor for good people. He is saying that good people are like salt in that they add flavor and preserve the world. They make the world a better place.

Historical Example

"In the first sense, to be the salt of the earth, signifies that the apostles would prevent the earth from degenerating, that is, prevent men from becoming utterly corrupt; in the latter sense it will signify that they would fertilize the earth, that is, make men fruitful of good works."

- Notes and Illustrations of the Parables of the New Testament, 1834

10 Examples of "Salt of the Earth" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

  • Good on you for being the salt of the earth, always ready to lend a helping hand.
  • She is the salt of the earth, always going out of her way to support her community.
  • How time flies when you're with the salt of the earth like my grandfather.
  • My grandfather was the salt of the earth, a man of great integrity and humility.
  • Despite his success, he remains the salt of the earth, never forgetting his humble beginnings.
  • As an aside, let me just tell you about Mrs. Jones. She truly is the salt of the earth, always ready to help her neighbors.
  • Happy trails to you, friend. Your kind nature and helpful spirit prove you're the salt of the earth.
  • The farmers are the salt of the earth, working tirelessly to provide us with food.
  • He is the salt of the earth, always ready to lend a hand when needed.
  • Mina's a real salt of the earth. Her words to live by are, "Always help others when you can."

Examples of "Salt of the Earth" in Pop Culture

The phrase "salt of the earth" appears frequently in media that deals with themes of honesty, hard work, and humility, such as family dramas, coming-of-age stories, and documentaries.

Some examples include:

  • "The Suppression of Salt of the Earth" is a non-fiction book by James J. Lorence.
  • "The Salt of the Earth" is a 2014 documentary about the life and work of the Brazilian photographer Sebastiao Salgado.

Other/Different Ways to Say "Salt of the Earth"

There are several alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "salt of the earth."

Some of these include:

  • A pillar of the community
  • As good as gold
  • True blue
  • Down to earth
  • A diamond in the rough

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Salt of the Earth"

  • What does "salt of the earth" mean?

"Salt of the earth" refers to a person who is considered to be good, honest, and dependable.

  • How can I use "salt of the earth" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "Despite his fame and fortune, he remains the salt of the earth."

  • Where does the idiom "salt of the earth" come from?

This phrase originates from the Bible, specifically the Book of Matthew.

  • Can people use the phrase in written communication?

Yes, the phrase "salt of the earth" can be used in both informal and formal written communication.

  • Are there any regional differences in using the phrase?

The phrase "salt of the earth" is used universally in English-speaking countries and is generally understood across different regions.

  • Can strangers use the phrase "salt of the earth"?

Yes, the phrase is not context-specific and can be used by anyone to describe a person of integrity and reliability.

  • Is it okay to use the phrase when talking about a group of people?

Yes, you can use the phrase to describe a group of people, such as "the volunteers at the local shelter are truly the salt of the earth."

  • What's the difference between "salt of the earth" and "pillar of the community"?

While both phrases describe individuals of value, "pillar of the community" more directly refers to a person who plays a key role in their community, whereas "salt of the earth" emphasizes a person's humility, reliability, and goodness.

  • Can one use the phrase in a negative context?

Typically, "salt of the earth" is used in a positive context to praise someone's virtues. However, it can be used ironically or sarcastically to imply the opposite.

Final Thoughts About "Salt of the Earth"

To sum it up, the phrase "salt of the earth" is a term of praise for a person or group of people known for their honesty, hard work, and humility. This idiom encapsulates the idea of a person who is both essential and invaluable to society.

Key aspects of the phrase:

  • Refers to individuals who are hardworking, humble, and reliable
  • Associated with integrity and value to society
  • Typically used in a positive context but can be used ironically

Use this idiom when you want to acknowledge someone's dependability or worth or to express admiration for someone's modest, hardworking nature. Despite its biblical origins, it is widely understood and commonly used in everyday language.

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