Topical Bible: Commerce: Articles of Frankincense

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Frankincense, a fragrant resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia, holds significant historical and religious importance in biblical times. It was a highly valued commodity in ancient commerce, often associated with worship, offerings, and trade.

Biblical References and Uses

Frankincense is frequently mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the context of worship and offerings. In Exodus 30:34-36, God instructs Moses on the preparation of a sacred incense blend, which includes frankincense: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha, and galbanum—and pure frankincense, all in equal measures—and make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy.'" This passage highlights its use in the Tabernacle, signifying its sacred role in Israelite worship.

In Leviticus 2:1-2, frankincense is also mentioned as part of the grain offering: "When anyone presents an offering of grain to the LORD, his offering shall consist of fine flour. He is to pour olive oil on it, put frankincense on it, and bring it to Aaron’s sons the priests. The priest shall then take a handful of fine flour and oil, together with all the frankincense, and burn this memorial portion on the altar, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD." This illustrates its symbolic representation of prayer and devotion.

Trade and Economic Significance

Frankincense was a key item in ancient trade, often transported along the Incense Route, which connected the Arabian Peninsula with the Mediterranean. The demand for frankincense was driven by its use in religious rituals, medicinal applications, and as a luxury item. The prophet Isaiah references the wealth associated with frankincense in Isaiah 60:6: "Caravans of camels will cover your land—young camels of Midian and Ephah—all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and frankincense and proclaiming the praises of the LORD."

The economic significance of frankincense is further underscored in the New Testament. In Matthew 2:11, the Magi present gifts to the infant Jesus, including frankincense: "On coming to the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary, and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh." This act not only signifies honor and worship but also reflects the value and esteem of frankincense as a precious commodity.

Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning

Frankincense's role in biblical worship and its inclusion in offerings symbolize purity, prayer, and the divine presence. Its rising smoke during burning is often seen as a metaphor for prayers ascending to God, as suggested in Psalm 141:2: "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering."

In Revelation 8:3-4, the imagery of incense is used to depict the prayers of the saints: "Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, along with the prayers of all the saints, on the golden altar before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of the saints, rose up before God from the hand of the angel."

Conclusion

The commerce of frankincense in biblical times reflects its multifaceted role as a sacred, economic, and symbolic element. Its presence in Scripture underscores its importance in worship and trade, while its spiritual symbolism continues to resonate in Christian theology.

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Jeremiah 6:20
To what purpose comes there to me incense from Sheba, and the sweet cane from a far country? your burnt offerings are not acceptable, nor your sacrifices sweet to me.
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Revelation 18:13
And cinnamon, and odors, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men.
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Library

But we are Called to Account as Harm-Doers on Another Ground...
... nor inn, nor weekly market, nor any other places of commerce. ... We do not go to your
spectacles; yet the articles that are sold ... We certainly buy no frankincense. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/tertullian/apology/chapter xlii but we are.htm

The Destruction of Babylon.
... ointment, and incense, and myrrh, and frankincense, and wine ... And these articles of
traffic are symbolized by ... The commerce of this ecclesiastical city, has been ...
/.../bliss/a brief commentary on the apocalypse/the destruction of babylon.htm