In the Bible, smoke is often used symbolically to represent the presence of God, judgment, or the prayers of the saints. It is a powerful image that conveys both divine majesty and the seriousness of divine wrath.

1. Divine Presence and Glory: Smoke is frequently associated with the presence of God. In Exodus 19:18, when God descended upon Mount Sinai, "Mount Sinai was completely enveloped in smoke, because the LORD had descended on it in fire." This imagery underscores the holiness and awe-inspiring nature of God's presence.

2. Judgment and Wrath: Smoke is also a symbol of God's judgment. In Revelation 14:11, the smoke of the torment of those who worship the beast "rises forever and ever," indicating eternal judgment. Similarly, in Genesis 19:28, Abraham sees "smoke rising from the land, like smoke from a furnace" after the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, signifying divine retribution.

3. Prayers of the Saints: In a more positive light, smoke represents the prayers of the faithful. Revelation 8:4 states, "And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, rose up before God from the hand of the angel." Here, smoke symbolizes the ascent of prayers to God, indicating their acceptance and significance.

4. Prophetic Imagery: Smoke is used in prophetic literature to describe apocalyptic visions. Joel 2:30 speaks of "blood and fire and columns of smoke" as signs preceding the Day of the Lord, emphasizing the dramatic and transformative nature of God's intervention in history.

Wax

Wax, though less frequently mentioned, serves as a metaphor in the Bible, often illustrating the transient nature of human life and the power of God to transform and renew.

1. Transience and Melting: Wax is used to depict the fleeting and fragile nature of human existence. Psalm 68:2 states, "As smoke is blown away, You will drive them out; as wax melts before the fire, the wicked will perish in the presence of God." This imagery highlights the impermanence of human life and the ultimate triumph of divine justice.

2. Transformation and Renewal: In Psalm 22:14, the psalmist laments, "I am poured out like water, and all my bones are disjointed. My heart is like wax; it has melted within me." Here, wax symbolizes a state of vulnerability and transformation, reflecting the psalmist's deep distress and reliance on God for renewal and strength.

3. Symbol of Softening: Wax can also symbolize the softening of hearts. In the context of spiritual transformation, the melting of wax can represent the process by which God softens hardened hearts, making them receptive to His will and guidance.

In summary, both smoke and wax serve as rich symbols within the biblical narrative, illustrating themes of divine presence, judgment, prayer, transience, and transformation. These elements underscore the dynamic relationship between God and humanity, highlighting both the majesty of the divine and the fragility of human life.