Expert: Edward Bode - 12/12/2006

Question
What is the meaning of Mk 9:50 what does the salt represent?
What is the meaning of "Their Worm" in Mk 9:48 and in Isa 66:24? Note that NIV contains 10 other instances of "worm" but none others of "their worm"
Is Mk 9:48 related to Mk 9:50 in any way? Is it a continuation of the same topic, or a separate topic?

Answer
I understand verses 49 and 50 to be separate sayings based on the use of the word salt with verse 49 added to 48 because of the word [fire] connection.
The worm, as you noted comes from the final part of Isaiah. Worms quite naturally became symbols of sickness and decay. The valley of Hinnon, the burning trash dump of Jerusalem, would be a fertile ground for worms. I  do not think that the "their" changes the meaning of great distress and suffering.
Salt and fire would seem to refer to some purification during suffering and persecution.  We can learn from suffering.
The salt of seasoning in verse 50 difers from that of purification in the preceding verse.  Mt 5:13 refers to the disciples as the salt of the earth; Col 4:16 as agents of spiritual wisdom.  The final salt saying refers to hospitality and friendship among Jesus' followers.
As you have recognized, the gospels sometimes string together sayings on the basis of word association.  The practice requires our close attention to understand what is meant.
If you would like more, please feel free to write again.
Best wishes, Khushro, for a blessed Christmas.