Nitre
Natureâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
In the King James Version, the term 'niter' refers to naturally occurring salts, primarily sodium carbonate or potassium nitrate, rather than the modern chemical definition of pure potassium nitrate.
What is the meaning of Nitre in the Bible?
In the King James Version, the term 'niter' refers to naturally occurring salts, primarily sodium carbonate or potassium nitrate, rather than the modern chemical definition of pure potassium nitrate.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing that 'niter' in biblical texts denotes specific natural salts helps clarify the practical uses and physical properties described in ancient narratives, such as their role in cleaning or preservation.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Nitre in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Nitre clarify?
Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.