Nose

Summary

The nose in Scripture represents the seat of breath and life, as well as being associated with anger and ornamentation.

☩Breath and Life

The nose is intimately connected with the breath of life in Hebrew thought. God breathed into Adam's nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul. The phrase 'breath in his nostrils' indicates the fragility of human life.

Key verses:Genesis 2:7Genesis 7:22Isaiah 2:22

☩Symbol of Anger

The Hebrew word for nose (aph) is also used for anger, since the nostrils flare in anger. Phrases like 'the blast of thy nostrils' describe God's fierce anger in judgment.

Key verses:Exodus 15:82 Samuel 22:9Job 4:9

☩Ornamentation

Nose rings were common ornaments in the ancient Near East. The servant of Abraham gave Rebekah a golden nose ring. Isaiah mentions nose rings among the finery of the daughters of Zion.

Key verses:Genesis 24:47Isaiah 3:21Ezekiel 16:12

Related Verses15 mentions

Ezekiel· 4 verses

8:17 16:12 23:25 39:11

Isaiah· 3 verses

3:21 37:29 65:5

Job· 2 verses

40:24 41:2

Song of Solomon· 2 verses

7:4 7:8

References

1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Nose," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. VII (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).