Exodus 39:38

the gold altar, the anointing oil, the fragrant incense, and the curtain for the entrance to the tent;

Study Bible

the gold altar
The gold altar, also known as the altar of incense, was located in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle. It was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold, signifying its sacred purpose. This altar was used for burning incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 8:3-4). The use of gold represents purity and divinity, pointing to the holiness required in approaching God. The altar's placement before the veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place underscores the importance of prayer and intercession in the worship of God.

the anointing oil
The anointing oil was a sacred mixture used to consecrate the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests (Exodus 30:22-33). This oil was a blend of olive oil and specific spices, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's presence and empowerment. Anointing with oil set apart individuals and objects for God's service, indicating sanctification and divine approval. The use of oil in anointing foreshadows the anointing of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, whose title means "Anointed One" (Luke 4:18).

the fragrant incense
The fragrant incense was a specific blend of spices used exclusively for worship in the Tabernacle (Exodus 30:34-38). Its aroma was pleasing to God, symbolizing the acceptable prayers and worship of His people. The incense was burned on the gold altar, and its smoke represented the prayers of the saints rising to heaven. This practice highlights the importance of purity and devotion in worship, as well as the role of Christ as our intercessor (Hebrews 7:25).

and the curtain for the entrance to the tent;
The curtain for the entrance to the tent, also known as the screen, was made of fine linen and embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn (Exodus 26:36-37). This curtain served as the entrance to the Holy Place, symbolizing the separation between the sacred and the common. The colors and craftsmanship reflect the glory and majesty of God. The curtain's function as a barrier points to the need for a mediator between God and humanity, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who through His sacrifice, tore the veil and granted believers direct access to God (Matthew 27:51; Hebrews 10:19-20).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Gold Altar
This refers to the altar of incense, which was made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. It was placed in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God.

2. The Anointing Oil
A sacred mixture used to consecrate the priests and the Tabernacle, signifying the setting apart of people and objects for God's service.

3. The Fragrant Incense
A special blend of spices burned on the gold altar, representing the prayers and worship of the Israelites rising to God.

4. The Curtain for the Entrance to the Tent
This curtain separated the Holy Place from the outer court, symbolizing the barrier between God and humanity that was later torn at Christ's crucifixion.

5. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites, representing God's desire to dwell with His people.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Prayer
The gold altar and incense remind us of the importance of prayer in our relationship with God. Just as incense was a pleasing aroma, our prayers are a sweet offering to the Lord.

Consecration and Holiness
The anointing oil signifies the need for holiness and being set apart for God's purposes. As believers, we are called to live consecrated lives, dedicated to His service.

Access to God
The curtain represents the separation that sin causes between humanity and God. Through Christ, this barrier is removed, and we have direct access to the Father.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle illustrates God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and God dwells within us.

Worship and Reverence
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings teach us the importance of approaching God with reverence and worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the symbolism of the gold altar and incense enhance your understanding of the role of prayer in your life?

2. In what ways can you apply the concept of being anointed and set apart for God's service in your daily activities?

3. How does the tearing of the curtain at Jesus' crucifixion impact your view of access to God and your personal relationship with Him?

4. Reflect on the presence of God in your life. How can you cultivate a greater awareness of His dwelling within you?

5. Considering the reverence shown in the construction and use of the Tabernacle, how can you incorporate a greater sense of worship and reverence in your spiritual practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The gold altar and incense are connected to Revelation, where the prayers of the saints are depicted as incense before God.

The anointing oil is linked to the New Testament concept of believers being anointed by the Holy Spirit.

The curtain's tearing at Jesus' death in the Gospels signifies the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting direct access to God through Christ.