καπνός

smoke

Definition

Kapnos refers to smoke, a visible vapor or cloud produced by combustion. In the New Testament, it most often describes literal smoke, such as the smoke from a great furnace in Revelation 9:2. However, it is also used symbolically. In Acts 2:19, it appears in a prophetic quotation from Joel, describing cosmic signs. In Revelation, it frequently symbolizes judgment, obscurity, or the presence of God, as seen in the smoke of torment rising forever in Revelation 14:11 and the smoke filling the temple of God in Revelation 15:8.

Biblical Usage

The word is used 11 times, exclusively in Acts and Revelation. In Acts 2:19, it is part of a prophetic sign. In Revelation, its usage is dense and symbolic, describing phenomena from the abyss (Revelation 9:2-3), the mouths of horses in a visionary army (Revelation 9:17-18), the torment of the wicked (Revelation 14:11), and the glorious, impenetrable presence of God in the heavenly temple (Revelation 15:8). Its usage shifts from a simple physical description to a rich apocalyptic symbol.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek word καπνός (kapnos), meaning 'smoke' or 'vapor.' It is a primary noun with cognates in other Indo-European languages. The word itself does not have a complex derivation but carries its core meaning directly into Koine Greek.

Semantic Range

In Revelation, καπνός is a theologically significant symbol. It represents both divine judgment (as smoke of torment) and divine glory and mystery (as smoke filling God's temple, evoking the cloud of God's presence in the Old Testament, e.g., Exodus 40:34-35). Understanding this dual symbolism enriches reading by showing how smoke can signify both the consequence of sin and the awe-inspiring, unapproachable holiness of God.

In the ancient world, smoke from sacrifices was a primary means of communication with the divine, carrying prayers upward. It was also associated with altars, warfare, and destruction. The biblical imagery, especially in Revelation, draws on this cultural understanding but expands it into a cosmic, apocalyptic framework where smoke signifies profound spiritual realities.

νεφέλη (nephelē, G3507) — a cloud, often used for weather or the glory cloud of God's presence, less associated with combustion. ἀτμίς (atmis, G822) — vapor or mist, like a breath or steam, not necessarily from burning.

Word Details

Scripture References