### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ánalos**, represented by `{{G358}}`, means **saltless** or **insipid**. It is formed from "Α" as a negative particle and "ἅλς" (salt). This specific term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G358}}` is in [[Mark 9:50]], where it is used in a rhetorical question to illustrate a loss of purpose or effectiveness. The verse states, "Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his **saltness**, wherewith will ye season it?". The word, translated as "have lost his saltness," describes a state where salt has become insipid and can no longer fulfill its function. The passage concludes with the command to "Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another," directly connecting the quality of being "salty" with the spiritual condition of believers [[Mark 9:50]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of `{{G358}}`:
* `{{G217}}` **hálas** (salt): This is the root concept from which **ánalos** (saltless) is derived. The entire teaching in [[Mark 9:50]] revolves around the nature of **salt** and its potential to lose its defining quality. It is also used figuratively for prudence.
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to become): Translated as "have lost" in this context, this verb describes the process of change. The salt, which is inherently good, can **become** saltless, highlighting a transition from a useful state to an ineffective one [[Mark 9:50]]. The same word is used elsewhere to describe a transformation, such as when the Word was **made** flesh [[John 1:14]].
* `{{G2570}}` **kalós** (good): This adjective establishes the inherent value of salt, stating "Salt is **good**" [[Mark 9:50]]. This positive quality is the standard against which the state of being **saltless** `{{G358}}` is measured. The term is often used to describe valuable or virtuous works [[Matthew 5:16]].
* `{{G741}}` **artýō** (to season): This word defines the primary function of salt that is lost when it becomes **ánalos**. The question, "wherewith will ye **season** it?" [[Mark 9:50]], underscores the uselessness of insipid salt. This same word is used to describe speech that is **seasoned** with salt [[Colossians 4:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G358}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful application.
* **Warning Against Ineffectiveness:** The concept of salt becoming **saltless** serves as a potent metaphor for spiritual impotence. The question of how to restore its ability to season implies a state of uselessness, a warning to believers against losing their distinct, positive influence.
* **The Internal State of a Believer:** The passage immediately contrasts the negative condition of being **saltless** with the positive command to "Have salt in yourselves" [[Mark 9:50]]. This links the quality of spiritual "saltiness" to the inner life and character of a disciple.
* **Foundation for Peace:** The instruction following the warning about `{{G358}}` is to "have peace one with another" [[Mark 9:50]]. This suggests that maintaining spiritual vitality and purpose (i.e., not becoming **saltless**) is a prerequisite for peaceful and right relationships within the community of believers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G358}}` is a rare but impactful word. As **saltless** or **insipid**, it describes a state of lost purpose and ineffectiveness. Its use in [[Mark 9:50]] serves as a critical warning about the potential for a believer's spiritual vitality to diminish, rendering them unable to fulfill their intended role. Though appearing only once, **ánalos** provides a vivid and enduring image of the importance of maintaining one's spiritual character and influence.
TRV