The verse captures a scene of heavenly celebration, where the multitude in heaven praises God with a resounding "Hallelujah," a term that means "Praise the Lord." This is part of a larger vision of God's ultimate victory over evil. The smoke rising forever signifies the complete and irreversible judgment against the forces of wickedness, represented by Babylon in the preceding chapters. This imagery assures believers that God's justice is final and that evil will not have the last word.
The eternal nature of the smoke symbolizes the permanence of God's judgment and the eradication of evil from His creation. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises. For believers, this is a source of hope and encouragement, affirming that God's righteousness will ultimately prevail. The celebration in heaven reflects the joy and relief that comes with the assurance of God's ultimate victory, encouraging Christians to remain steadfast in faith, knowing that God's justice will be accomplished.