what do the ashes signify
Figurative: The term ashes is often used to signify worthlessness, insignificance or evanescence (Genesis 18:27 Job 30:19). Proverbs of ashes, for instance, in Job 13:12, is Job's equivalent, says one writer, for our modern rot.. For the ritual use of the ashes of the Red Heifer by the priests, see RED HEIFER.