Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of a chimney as understood in modern architecture did not exist. However, the term "chimney" is occasionally used in some translations of the Bible to describe structures or openings related to smoke and fire. The Berean Standard Bible does not specifically use the term "chimney," but the concept can be inferred from certain passages that describe smoke rising or structures that allow for the escape of smoke.1. Smoke and Fire Imagery: The Bible often uses the imagery of smoke and fire to convey God's presence, judgment, or the prayers of the faithful. In the context of a chimney, these images can be associated with the idea of smoke rising through an opening. · Exodus 19:18 : "Mount Sinai was completely enveloped in smoke, because the LORD had descended on it in fire. The smoke rose like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked violently." This passage describes the presence of God on Mount Sinai, where the smoke is likened to that of a furnace, suggesting an image similar to smoke rising through a chimney. 2. Structures Allowing Smoke to Escape: While the Bible does not explicitly mention chimneys, it does refer to structures that allow for the escape of smoke, particularly in the context of sacrifices and offerings. · Leviticus 1:9 : "The entrails and legs must be washed with water, and the priest shall burn all of it on the altar as a burnt offering, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD." The altar, where sacrifices were burned, would have allowed smoke to rise, similar to a chimney's function in directing smoke away. 3. Symbolism of Smoke: Smoke is often symbolic in the Bible, representing various spiritual truths and realities. The rising of smoke can symbolize prayers ascending to God or the presence of the divine. · Psalm 141:2 : "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering." Here, the psalmist likens prayer to incense, which, when burned, produces smoke that rises, much like the function of a chimney in directing smoke upward. 4. Judgment and Destruction: In prophetic literature, smoke is sometimes associated with judgment and destruction, where the imagery of smoke rising can be seen as a metaphor for devastation. · Isaiah 34:10 : "It will not be quenched night or day; its smoke will ascend forever. From generation to generation it will lie desolate; no one will ever pass through it again." This passage speaks of perpetual smoke as a sign of ongoing desolation and judgment. 5. The Absence of Chimneys in Ancient Dwellings: In ancient Israelite architecture, homes typically did not have chimneys as we know them today. Instead, smoke from cooking fires would escape through openings in the roof or walls. This practical aspect of daily life is not directly addressed in Scripture but is understood from archaeological and historical studies of ancient Near Eastern dwellings. In summary, while the Bible does not explicitly mention chimneys, the concept of smoke rising through an opening is present in various passages, often carrying significant symbolic meaning related to God's presence, prayer, and judgment. Nave's Topical Index Hosea 13:3Therefore they shall be as the morning cloud and as the early dew that passes away, as the chaff that is driven with the whirlwind out of the floor, and as the smoke out of the chimney. Nave's Topical Index Library The Form of Concord, Concluded. An Exhortation to Peace and Unity The Gentle Boy A Few Sighs from Hell; Saved by Grace; The Resurrection of the Dead, and Eternal Judgment: Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers. Resources What should parents tell their children about Santa Claus? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a papal conclave? | GotQuestions.org Chimney: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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