Snow is often used in the Bible as a symbol of purity, cleansing, and transformation. From the whitening of sins to the divine revelation of God’s glory, the imagery of snow conveys a message of renewal and spiritual purity. Let’s delve into Bible verses that speak about snow. Each verse provides deep insight into God’s nature and the transformative work He accomplishes in our lives.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Ocean
Bible Verses About Snow
Isaiah 1:18
“Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be like wool.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes God’s desire for reconciliation with His people. Despite the stain of sin, God promises that, through repentance and His mercy, sins can be washed away and made pure as snow. The mention of snow symbolizes total purification and renewal, assuring us that no matter how deep our sins run, God’s grace is sufficient to make us clean again.
Psalm 51:7
“Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean; Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.”
Commentary: King David’s plea for forgiveness in this verse underscores the transformative power of God’s cleansing. Hyssop was used in purification rituals, and here it symbolizes a thorough spiritual cleansing. Being made “whiter than snow” highlights the completeness of God’s forgiveness. It’s a reminder that God not only forgives but completely purifies those who come to Him in repentance.
Job 37:6
“For He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth’; And [speaks] to the downpour of rain, ‘Be strong.'”
Commentary: This verse reflects God’s sovereign control over nature, including the snow. Snowfall is portrayed as a direct result of God’s command, emphasizing His omnipotence. It reminds us that God orchestrates even the smallest details of creation, and the snow is a manifestation of His majestic power over the earth.
Job 38:22
“Have you entered the storehouses of the snow, Or have you seen the storehouses of the hail.”
Commentary: God challenges Job with a question that reveals the vastness of His wisdom and power. The “storehouses of the snow” suggest that even the weather is under God’s careful management. It’s a humbling reminder that the mysteries of the universe are within God’s knowledge, far beyond human understanding, and that He controls all things for His purposes.
Proverbs 25:13
“Like the cold of snow [brought from the mountains] in the time of harvest, So is a faithful messenger to those who send him, For he refreshes the life of his masters.”
Commentary: Snow, in this context, represents refreshment and reliability. Just as snow cools and refreshes during harvest time, a faithful messenger brings much-needed relief and reassurance to those who depend on him. This verse emphasizes the value of faithfulness and reliability in service to others, drawing a connection between the physical refreshment snow brings and the spiritual refreshment that faithfulness provides.
Psalm 147:16
“He gives snow like [a blanket of] wool; He scatters the frost like ashes.”
Commentary: The imagery in this verse portrays God as a meticulous provider, covering the earth with snow like a blanket of wool. This metaphor conveys the idea of protection and care, showing that even in harsh weather, God’s hand is present. Snow, like wool, is soft and protective, reminding us that God’s provision is gentle, even in moments of adversity.
Isaiah 55:10
“For as the rain and snow come down from heaven, And do not return there without watering the earth, Making it bare and sprout, And providing seed to the sower and bread to the eater.”
Commentary: In this passage, snow is used as an illustration of God’s word and its life-giving power. Just as snow nourishes the earth and causes it to produce fruit, so too does God’s word nourish our souls and bring about spiritual growth. It’s a reminder that God’s word never returns void but always accomplishes the purpose for which it was sent.
Daniel 7:9
“I kept looking Until thrones were set up, And the Ancient of Days (God) took His seat; His garment was white as snow And the hair of His head like pure wool. His throne was flames of fire; Its wheels were a burning fire.”
Commentary: Here, the snow symbolizes the purity and holiness of God. The “Ancient of Days” is a reference to God’s eternal nature, and His snow-white garment speaks to His absolute righteousness and glory. This vision of God seated on His throne emphasizes both His majesty and His purity, reminding us of His authority and His perfect justice.
Revelation 1:14
“His head and His hair were white like white wool [glistening white] like snow; and His [all-seeing] eyes were flashing like a flame of fire [piercing into my being].”
Commentary: The snow-white hair of Christ in this vision symbolizes His eternal wisdom and purity. The description of His eyes as flames of fire adds to the intensity of His divine authority and insight. Snow, in this context, represents the perfection and holiness of Jesus, who sees all and judges with righteousness and purity.
Matthew 28:3
“His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow.”
Commentary: This verse refers to the angel at the tomb of Jesus, whose clothing was as white as snow. The purity and brilliance of the angel’s appearance reflect the holiness and power of God, particularly in the context of Christ’s resurrection. Snow, here, symbolizes purity, victory, and the divine nature of the heavenly messenger.
Exodus 4:6
“The Lord also said to him, ‘Put your hand into your robe [where it covers your chest].’ So he put his hand into his robe, and when he took it out, his hand was leprous, as white as snow.”
Commentary: In this passage, snow is associated with the affliction of leprosy, a disease that causes the skin to turn white. It’s a powerful demonstration of God’s ability to afflict and heal. The whiteness of snow, in this case, signifies the starkness of the disease but also the possibility of God’s intervention and healing.
Lamentations 4:7
“Her princes were purer than snow, Whiter than milk [in appearance], More ruddy in body than rubies, Their polishing was like lapis lazuli.”
Commentary: This verse describes the former glory and purity of the princes of Jerusalem. Their purity is compared to snow, symbolizing their innocence and moral uprightness. However, this purity is contrasted with the destruction that later befalls them due to sin. Snow, in this context, serves as a reminder of lost purity and the consequences of turning away from God.
2 Samuel 23:20
“Then Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel, who had done great deeds, killed two sons of Ariel of Moab. He also went down and killed a lion in the middle of a pit on a snowy day.”
Commentary: The mention of snow in this verse provides a setting for the heroism of Benaiah. The fact that he killed a lion on a snowy day highlights his bravery and strength in difficult circumstances. Snow, in this context, serves as a backdrop that emphasizes the extraordinary nature of his actions and the challenges he overcame.
Psalm 68:14
“When the Almighty scattered [the Canaanite] kings there, It was snowing on Zalmon.”
Commentary: The snow on Mount Zalmon is used to describe God’s victory over Israel’s enemies. Just as snow covers the ground and transforms the landscape, God’s intervention brought about a transformation in Israel’s circumstances. Snow, in this passage, symbolizes both God’s sovereignty and the sweeping nature of His deliverance.
Mark 9:3
“And His clothes became radiant and dazzling, intensely white, as no launderer on earth can whiten them [whiter than any earthly bleach can make them].”
Commentary: During the Transfiguration, Jesus’ clothes became dazzling white, brighter than any human effort could achieve. This whiteness, like snow, symbolizes His divine nature and glory. It serves as a visual reminder of Christ’s purity and the otherworldly nature of His mission on earth.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Beauty Of Nature
Job 9:30
“If I wash myself with snow And cleanse my hands with lye.”
Commentary: In this verse, Job laments the futility of trying to cleanse himself of sin by human effort. Snow, while pure, cannot wash away the stains of sin. It emphasizes the need for divine intervention in spiritual cleansing, pointing to the insufficiency of human works and the necessity of God’s grace.
Job 6:16
“Which are turbid and darkened because of ice, And into which the snow melts and hides itself.”
Commentary: Here, Job speaks of streams that are unreliable, much like his friends’ comfort. Snow melts and disappears, symbolizing the temporary and fleeting nature of comfort that is not grounded in truth. This verse reminds us of the need for steadfast support in times of trouble, rather than shallow and temporary assurances.
Jeremiah 18:14
“Does the snow of [Mount] Lebanon leave the rock of the open country [in winter]? Or do the cold, rushing waters of foreign lands ever run dry?”
Commentary: Snow on Mount Lebanon is a symbol of constancy and reliability. In this verse, God contrasts the dependable nature of the snow and the rivers with the fickleness of His people, who have turned away from Him. The snow, which remains on the mountains, represents the steadfastness that God desires in His relationship with His people.
Psalm 148:8
“Lightning and hail, snow and fog; Stormy wind, fulfilling His orders.”
Commentary: This verse praises God for His control over all elements of nature, including snow. Snow is seen as a servant of God, fulfilling His commands. It is a reminder that every part of creation, even the snow, serves a divine purpose and reflects God’s sovereignty over the universe.
Zechariah 14:6
“In that day there will be no light; the glorious ones (heavenly bodies) shall be darkened.”
Commentary: While not directly mentioning snow, the imagery of light and darkness in this verse brings to mind the brightness of snow as a contrast to the impending judgment. Snow, often associated with light and purity, stands in stark contrast to the darkness that accompanies God’s judgment in this prophetic vision.
2 Kings 5:27
“Therefore, the leprosy of Naaman shall cling to you and to your descendants forever.” So Gehazi departed from his presence, a leper as white as snow.”
Commentary: Gehazi’s leprosy, which turned him as white as snow, serves as a punishment for his deceit and greed. The whiteness of snow, in this context, symbolizes the visible manifestation of sin’s consequences. It stands as a warning about the dangers of disobedience and dishonesty before God.
Judges 5:4
“Lord, when You went out of Seir, When You marched from the field of Edom, The earth trembled, and the heavens also dripped, Yes, the clouds dripped water.”
Commentary: Though snow is not explicitly mentioned, the imagery of water and the heavens suggests the presence of snow in the high mountains. The trembling earth and water imagery highlight God’s majesty and power over creation. Snow, as a part of this majestic display, represents the purity and awe-inspiring nature of God’s presence.
Proverbs 31:21
“She does not fear the snow for her household, For all in her household are clothed in [expensive] scarlet [wool].”
Commentary: This verse refers to the virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31. She is prepared for all circumstances, including the harshness of winter. The snow symbolizes difficult or challenging times, but she does not fear because she has provided well for her household. The mention of scarlet wool emphasizes that her preparations are not only practical but also of the finest quality, showcasing her wisdom, diligence, and care.
Job 24:19
“Drought and heat consume the snow waters; So does Sheol (the nether world, the place of the dead) those who have sinned.”
Commentary: In this verse, snow water is used metaphorically to describe the temporary and fleeting nature of life for the sinner. Just as snow melts under the heat of the sun, the lives of those who persist in sin are consumed by Sheol. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the inevitable judgment that awaits those who do not turn to God.
Psalm 74:17
“You have established all the boundaries of the earth [the divisions of land and sea and of the nations]; You have made summer and winter [the seasons].”
Commentary: Although snow is not directly mentioned, this verse acknowledges God’s sovereignty over the changing seasons, including winter. Snow, as part of the winter season, falls under God’s creation and order. It serves as a reminder that everything in nature, including the cold and snowy months, is under God’s perfect design and control, emphasizing His meticulous governance over the earth.
2 Samuel 1:23
“Saul and Jonathan, beloved and lovely! In life and in death they were not divided; They were swifter than eagles, They were stronger than lions.”
Commentary: Although this verse doesn’t mention snow explicitly, it highlights the metaphorical strength and resilience of Saul and Jonathan, which can be compared to the endurance required to face a snowy winter. Snow often symbolizes endurance, and just as the snow endures the harshness of winter, so Saul and Jonathan endured together in life and death, remaining loyal and steadfast.
Psalm 19:6
“Its rising is from one end of the heavens, And its circuit to the other end of them; And there is nothing hidden from its heat.”
Commentary: This verse speaks of the sun’s heat reaching all corners of the earth, which can contrast with the cold of snow. Snow, which is hidden from heat, symbolizes the areas of life that feel distant from warmth and light. However, God’s light reaches everywhere, even the coldest and darkest places, reminding us of His omnipresence and the warmth of His love, even in winter seasons of our lives.
Job 37:10
“By the breath of God the ice is given, And the expanse of the waters is frozen.”
Commentary: In this verse, ice and freezing cold are directly attributed to the breath of God, emphasizing His control over the elements. Snow and ice serve as manifestations of God’s power, showing that He is in charge of even the harshest conditions. This reminds us that nothing happens outside of God’s will, and even in the coldest, most challenging times, His hand is at work.
Leviticus 13:17
“And the priest shall examine him, and if the infection has turned white, then the priest shall pronounce the one with the infection clean; he is clean.”
Commentary: Here, snow is represented in the whiteness of leprosy, which, upon healing, signifies restoration. The cleansing from leprosy symbolizes purification and renewal, much like the imagery of snow being pure and white. This passage reflects God’s ability to cleanse and heal those who are afflicted, offering hope that even those who are spiritually or physically unclean can be restored to purity.
Exodus 16:14
“When the layer of dew evaporated, there on the surface of the wilderness was a fine flake-like thing, as fine as frost on the ground.”
Commentary: The “fine frost” mentioned in this verse parallels the appearance of snow. This frost is manna, God’s miraculous provision for the Israelites in the desert. Like snow, the manna is pure and delicate, symbolizing God’s care and sustenance for His people in their time of need. It is a reminder that God provides for His children, even in barren or desolate situations.
Revelation 7:14
“I said to him, ‘My lord, you know.’ And he said to me, ‘These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb [because of His atoning sacrifice].'”
Commentary: The “white robes” washed in the blood of the Lamb symbolize purity and holiness, much like the imagery of snow. The great tribulation refers to the severe trials believers face, but through Christ’s atoning sacrifice, they are made pure and spotless. Snow serves as a fitting metaphor for the sinlessness that believers receive through the cleansing power of Jesus’ sacrifice.
Exodus 34:29
“When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hand, he did not know that the skin of his face was shining with a unique radiance because he had been speaking with God.”
Commentary: While snow isn’t mentioned explicitly, the shining face of Moses after encountering God could be compared to the brilliance of snow. Snow often represents God’s glory and purity, and Moses’ shining face is a reflection of his time in God’s presence. This verse illustrates how direct encounters with God can bring transformation, making a person radiate the glory of God, much like a snowy landscape reflects light.
Matthew 17:2
“And His appearance changed dramatically in their presence; and His face shone [with heavenly glory, clear and bright] like the sun, and His clothing became as white as light.”
Commentary: The Transfiguration of Jesus is described with clothing “as white as light,” which parallels the purity and brilliance of snow. This event reveals Christ’s divine nature, shining through His humanity. Snow, in this instance, symbolizes purity, holiness, and the glorious transformation that occurs in God’s presence. It’s a reminder of the glory and perfection of Christ.
Isaiah 41:18
“I will open rivers on the bare heights And springs in the midst of the valleys; I will make the wilderness a reed-pool of water And the dry land springs of water.”
Commentary: Although snow isn’t explicitly mentioned, the imagery of water in desolate places evokes the melting of snow that brings life to barren land. Snow’s eventual melting provides essential water, sustaining life in dry regions. This verse highlights God’s provision, as He promises to bring refreshment and life to those who are in spiritually dry places.
Job 12:22
“He uncovers mysteries [that are difficult to grasp and understands deep things out of darkness And brings them into light]; He brings deep darkness into light.”
Commentary: Although not directly related to snow, the idea of light overcoming darkness parallels the brightness of snow that illuminates even the darkest winter landscapes. Just as snow brightens the earth, God brings light to the hidden things, revealing truth and providing clarity. This verse speaks to God’s wisdom and ability to shine light on the mysteries of life.
Malachi 3:2
“But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner’s fire and like launderers’ soap [which removes impurities and uncleanness].”
Commentary: Although snow isn’t mentioned here, the imagery of soap, which purifies and cleanses, is reminiscent of snow’s symbolic purity. Just as launderers’ soap removes dirt, God’s refining process purifies and cleanses His people. Snow, with its association with cleanliness and holiness, mirrors the spiritual purification that God brings to His people through repentance and renewal.
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What Does the Bible Say About Snow
The Bible talks about snow a few times, and each time it reminds us of something powerful about God, about life, and about our hearts. Snow, which is clean, white, and pure, makes people think about being forgiven and being made new. Just like snow covers everything and changes the way the world looks, God’s forgiveness can cover our mistakes, making us clean and new inside. Snow also shows us God’s control over creation, because no one can stop snow from falling when it’s time, just like no one can stop God’s plans from happening in the world and in our lives.
When snow falls, it also reminds people that God provides for us in every season, even in the coldest times, and even though snow can sometimes be a challenge, it has a purpose, like watering the ground, making the earth ready for new life to grow. Snow can seem heavy or inconvenient, but just like many things in life that are tough, it often comes with blessings we don’t always see right away. It’s a reminder to trust that God is working, even when things seem frozen and still.
In all of these things, the Bible uses snow to show us God’s goodness, power, and ability to make us new again, and it reminds us that even though life isn’t always easy, God is always in control, and He always has a plan.