### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **artýō**, represented by `{{G741}}`, means **to prepare, i.e. spice (with stimulating condiments)**, and is translated as **season**. This word appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage revolves around the idea of adding value, effectiveness, or flavor, primarily in a figurative sense related to communication and character.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G741}}` is used both literally and figuratively. In the Gospels, it appears in the context of salt losing its defining quality. Both Mark and Luke pose the question: if salt has lost its taste, "wherewith shall it be seasoned?" [[Luke 14:34]] or "wherewith will ye season it?" [[Mark 9:50]]. This highlights a state of uselessness. In contrast, Paul uses the term metaphorically in his letter to the Colossians, instructing believers to let their speech be "seasoned with salt" [[Colossians 4:6]], implying that their words should be full of grace and effectiveness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and application of seasoning:
* `{{G217}}` **hálas** (salt): This is the seasoning agent itself. Its definition includes the figurative sense of **prudence**. In Mark, believers are told to "Have **salt** in yourselves" [[Mark 9:50]], linking it to an internal quality.
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (speech, word): This is what is to be seasoned. In Colossians, the instruction is to let your **speech** be seasoned [[Colossians 4:6]]. The word is also central in passages like [[John 1:1]], highlighting its divine importance.
* `{{G5485}}` **cháris** (grace): This is the essential ingredient that, along with salt, seasons speech. It is defined as **graciousness**. The mandate in [[Colossians 4:6]] is for speech to "be alway with **grace**," which in turn enables a proper answer to others.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G741}}` lies in its application to a believer's conduct and communication.
* **Purposeful Communication:** The primary application is to **season** speech with grace and salt [[Colossians 4:6]]. This is not for its own sake, but so that a believer will "know how ye ought to answer every man," making their witness effective and wise.
* **Maintaining Spiritual Vitality:** The warnings in [[Mark 9:50]] and [[Luke 14:34]] about salt losing its quality serve as a parable for disciples. It is a call to maintain the distinctive, preserving nature of one's faith and character, lest one become ineffective.
* **Fostering Peace:** In [[Mark 9:50]], the concept is directly tied to interpersonal relationships. Having "salt in yourselves" is immediately followed by the command to "have peace one with another," suggesting that this seasoned character is a prerequisite for peaceful community.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G741}}` is a potent verb that moves from the culinary world to the spiritual. While appearing only three times, its meaning is central to the Christian call to be distinct and effective. It illustrates how a believer's inner character ("salt in yourselves") should translate into external actions, particularly in speech that is full of grace. To be **seasoned** is to be useful, prudent, and prepared to engage the world in a way that preserves peace and offers a wise answer.
TRV