In the context of the Bible, the act of sniffing or the term "sniff" is not directly mentioned in the Scriptures. However, the concept of smell and its implications can be found throughout the biblical text, often symbolizing discernment, sacrifice, and divine pleasure or displeasure.

Symbolism of Smell in Sacrifices

The sense of smell is frequently associated with sacrifices in the Old Testament. The aroma of burnt offerings is described as pleasing to the Lord. In Genesis 8:21 , after Noah offered burnt offerings to God following the flood, it is written, "When the LORD smelled the pleasing aroma, He said in His heart, 'Never again will I curse the ground because of man, even though every inclination of his heart is evil from his youth. And never again will I destroy all living creatures, as I have done.'" This passage highlights the significance of a "pleasing aroma" as a symbol of God's acceptance and favor.

Similarly, in Leviticus, the instructions for various offerings repeatedly mention the aroma being pleasing to the Lord. Leviticus 1:9 states, "The entrails and legs he shall wash with water, and the priest shall burn all of it on the altar as a burnt offering, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD." The repeated emphasis on the aroma underscores the importance of the heart and intent behind the offering, rather than the mere physical act.

Divine Displeasure and Judgment

Conversely, the absence of a pleasing aroma or the presence of a foul smell can symbolize divine displeasure or judgment. In Isaiah 65:5 , God expresses His disdain for hypocritical worship, saying, "They say, ‘Keep to yourself, do not come near me, for I am holier than you!’ These are smoke in My nostrils, a fire that burns all day long." Here, the imagery of smoke in God's nostrils conveys irritation and rejection of insincere worship.

Discernment and Spiritual Perception

The sense of smell is also metaphorically linked to discernment and spiritual perception. In 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 , the Apostle Paul writes, "But thanks be to God, who always leads us triumphantly as captives in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him. For we are to God the sweet aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one, we are an odor of death and demise; to the other, a fragrance that brings life." This passage illustrates how the "fragrance of the knowledge of Him" serves as a spiritual indicator, revealing the condition of one's heart and relationship with God.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near Eastern culture, the sense of smell was highly regarded, and fragrances played a significant role in religious and social practices. Incense, perfumes, and aromatic oils were used in worship, anointing, and burial rituals. The biblical references to aroma and smell reflect this cultural context, where scents were not only physical but also carried deep spiritual and symbolic meanings.

Conclusion

While the specific act of "sniffing" is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the broader concept of smell is rich with theological significance. It serves as a metaphor for divine acceptance, judgment, and spiritual discernment, reflecting the heart's posture before God. Through the imagery of aroma, the Scriptures convey profound truths about worship, sincerity, and the transformative power of the Gospel.7602a. shaaph -- to gasp, pant, pant after, long for
... root Definition to gasp, pant, pant after, long for NASB Word Usage eager (1),
hastening (1), long (1), pant (2), panted (1), pants (1), sniffs (1). ...
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Grace and Truth Coupled.
... the latest-labelled cologne-water over him, and pats him on the shoulder, and says,
"Now, you feel better, my man, don't you?" And the man sniffs the perfume ...
/.../gordon/quiet talks on johns gospel/grace and truth coupled.htm

A Home Question
... How he sniffs at this princely blood; he knows that you were all made of earth as
Adam was, and that you all sprung from that gardener, that dishonest gardener ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 6 1860/a home question.htm

Sniffs (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Sniffs (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 2:24 An untrained
ass, used to the waste land, breathing up the wind in ...
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Sniffing (1 Occurrence)

/s/sniffing.htm - 7k

Snorting (2 Occurrences)

/s/snorting.htm - 7k

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