Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is vital for a deeper comprehension of scripture and its nuances. The word καπνός (kapnos), meaning “smoke,” plays a significant role in both the Old and New Testaments, often symbolizing divine presence, judgment, or prayer. Its relevance extends beyond scripture into the broader context of ancient Greek culture, where smoke also carried symbolic meanings related to offerings and the divine.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καπνός, transliterated as kapnos, pronounced [kap-NOS].
• Etymology: Rooted in ancient Greek, the term comes from the Proto-Indo-European kap- meaning “to smoke” or “to burn.”
• Part of Speech: Noun (masculine); first declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Smoke: The visible vapor or gases given off by burning material.
• Metaphorical Usage: Often symbolizes divine judgment, wrath, or the prayers of the saints.

Similar Words: πῦρ (pyr) [peer] means “fire” and is often associated with purification or divine presence, whereas καπνός (kapnos) specifically denotes the smoke arising from a burning fire, often implying aftermath or a residual effect.

Further Insights: καπνός is a first declension masculine noun. Its usage in various contexts reflects different theological themes such as divine wrath or presence and is often found in apocalyptic literature. Here is the declension table:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes καπνός as “smoke” with connotations of divine activity, particularly in judgment and divine encounters.
• Thayers: Focuses on καπνός as the smoke that rises, often in a sacrificial or apocalyptic context, symbolizing prayers or divine wrath.
• Vines: Emphasizes its figurative use in apocalyptic imagery, denoting both divine presence and judgment.
• LSJ: Notes the general usage of καπνός as “smoke” in various contexts, including everyday life, religion, and literature.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists καπνός as G2586, highlighting its usage in scriptures to represent divine judgment or prayer.

Related Scripture References

• Revelation 8:4: “The smoke [καπνός] of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, rose before God from the hand of the angel.”
• Revelation 9:2: “And he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke [καπνός] arose from the pit like the smoke of a great furnace.”
• Revelation 14:11: “And the smoke [καπνός] of their torment goes up forever and ever.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καπνός (G2586)

The Greek word καπνός (kapnos), meaning “smoke,” is a vivid term found in both the New Testament and classical literature. In Biblical contexts, it is often associated with divine presence, wrath, or intercession. The term’s varied uses in scripture and ancient texts help deepen our understanding of ancient religious practices and symbolism. Its metaphorical implications in Christian theology continue to influence interpretations of divine activity and eschatology.

Did You Know?

• καπνός is used in ancient rituals where smoke symbolized prayers ascending to the heavens.
• In the New Testament, καπνός is frequently found in apocalyptic contexts to describe divine judgment.
• The root of καπνός is linked to words in other Indo-European languages, like Latin’s capnus, meaning “smoke.”