### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qîyṭôwr**, represented by `{{H7008}}`, is defined as a fume, i.e. cloud; smoke, vapour. It is a specific term that appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, used to describe both literal smoke and metaphorical concepts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7008}}` carries distinct meanings depending on the context. It is most vividly used to describe the aftermath of divine judgment, where Abraham looked upon the destroyed cities of the plain and saw the **smoke** of the country rising "as the **smoke** of a furnace" [[Genesis 19:28]]. It is also used metaphorically to illustrate personal suffering, as in the psalmist's cry, "For I am become like a bottle in the **smoke**" [[Psalms 119:83]]. In a third context, it is listed as a natural element of creation, translated as **vapour**, alongside fire, hail, and snow, all of which fulfill God's word [[Psalms 148:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the imagery and context associated with `{{H7008}}`:
* `{{H3536}}` **kibshân** (a smelting furnace (as reducing metals); furnace): This term provides the direct visual simile for the immense smoke seen after the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, emphasizing its density and origin from intense heat [[Genesis 19:28]].
* `{{H784}}` **ʼêsh** (fire (literally or figuratively); burning, fiery, fire, flaming, hot): **Fire** is presented as a parallel natural force to **vapour** `{{H7008}}`, both being elements of creation that obey God's command [[Psalms 148:8]].
* `{{H1259}}` **bârâd** (hail; hail(stones)): Listed with **vapour** in Psalms, **hail** is another atmospheric element that is part of the created order fulfilling God's purpose [[Psalms 148:8]].
* `{{H7950}}` **sheleg** (snow (probably from its whiteness); snow(-y)): Like hail and fire, **snow** is grouped with **vapour** `{{H7008}}` as a natural phenomenon under divine command [[Psalms 148:8]].
* `{{H5591}}` **çaʻar** (a hurricane; storm(-y), tempest, whirlwind): This word is part of the phrase "stormy wind" that appears in the same verse as **vapour**, highlighting the powerful forces of nature at God's disposal [[Psalms 148:8]].
* `{{H7307}}` **rûwach** (wind; by resemblance breath, i.e. a sensible (or even violent) exhalation...): Paired with **çaʻar**, this **wind** is another of the elements, along with **vapour**, that executes God's word [[Psalms 148:8]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H7008}}` points to significant theological themes.
* **Divine Judgment:** The most powerful image associated with `{{H7008}}` is the thick smoke rising from the land of the plain, serving as the undeniable evidence of God's judgment against Sodom and Gomorrah [[Genesis 19:28]].
* **Sovereignty over Creation:** In Psalms, **vapour** is personified alongside other natural phenomena like fire, hail, snow, and stormy wind, all of which are depicted as actively "fulfilling his word," demonstrating God's complete command over the natural world [[Psalms 148:8]].
* **Metaphor for Affliction:** The image of a wineskin shriveling in the smoke illustrates a state of deep personal trial and distress, showing how the physical properties of smoke can be used to represent a spiritual or emotional condition [[Psalms 119:83]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7008}}` is a concise but potent word in the Hebrew Bible. While its occurrences are few, it effectively conveys concepts ranging from the visible sign of cataclysmic judgment to a poetic metaphor for human suffering. Its inclusion among the elements of nature also establishes it as a component of God's created order, subject to His sovereign will, whether as a destructive force or a simple atmospheric vapour.
TRV