There went up a smoke out of his nostrils, and fire out of his mouth devoured: coals were kindled by it.
Smoke rose from his nostrils, and fire poured from his mouth that destroyed everything. Hot coals were set ablaze by it.
This verse uses powerful imagery to describe God's fierce anger and judgment, picturing him like a mighty dragon breathing fire.
📚 Historical Context
This verse is part of a song of praise that David composed after God delivered him from his enemies and King Saul, as recorded in the historical books of the Old Testament. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, such poetic imagery of smoke and fire from God's nostrils was a common way to portray divine power and wrath, drawing from Near Eastern traditions that depicted gods as mighty warriors in battle. It reflects the biblical narrative of God's active role in protecting and fighting for His chosen leader.
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