Salt, Melach, has many mystical and ritual purposes in the Jewish tradition. From spreading on the Temple sacrifices representing the mineral world, to spreading on our meat to ensure kashrut, there are many shamanistic and metaphoric powers of salt. 

 

The Kabbalists equate Salt to Gevurah, one of the Sefirot in the Kabbalistic structure. Gevurah represents strength, focus, containment, and boundaries. Its counterpart in the Kabbalah system is Chesed, loving open expression. When these two forces are in balance, they create powerful Tikkun Olam. By holding this essential life force of salt, this vessel creates the physical boundary of Gevurah so that it can be properly channeled.