Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Composition Sweet incense, often referred to as "fragrant incense" in the Bible, is a sacred mixture used in the worship practices of ancient Israel. It was a key component in the rituals of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, symbolizing the prayers of the faithful ascending to God. The specific recipe for this incense was divinely prescribed and is detailed in the book of Exodus. According to Exodus 30:34-35 , the LORD instructed Moses: "Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha, galbanum, and pure frankincense—in equal measures, and make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy." Purpose and Use The primary purpose of sweet incense was to serve as a pleasing aroma to the LORD, representing the prayers and intercessions of the people. It was burned on the Altar of Incense, which stood in the Holy Place before the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. The burning of incense was a daily ritual, performed by the priests every morning and evening as part of the regular offerings (Exodus 30:7-8): "Aaron is to burn fragrant incense on it every morning when he tends the lamps. When Aaron sets up the lamps at twilight, he must burn the incense perpetually before the LORD for the generations to come." Symbolism Sweet incense holds deep symbolic meaning within the biblical narrative. It represents the prayers of the saints, as seen in Psalm 141:2 : "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering." This symbolism is further echoed in the New Testament, where the prayers of the saints are likened to incense in Revelation 5:8 : "And when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp, and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints." Restrictions and Sanctity The incense was considered holy, and its use was strictly regulated. It was not to be used for personal enjoyment or any secular purpose. Exodus 30:37-38 warns: "You are never to use this formula to make incense for yourselves; you shall regard it as holy to the LORD. Anyone who makes something like it to enjoy its fragrance shall be cut off from his people." This restriction underscores the sanctity of the incense and its exclusive dedication to worship. Historical Context In the context of ancient Near Eastern practices, incense was commonly used in religious rituals. However, the biblical prescription for sweet incense set Israel apart, emphasizing the unique relationship between God and His chosen people. The specific ingredients and their preparation were intended to reflect the purity and holiness required in approaching God. Theological Implications The use of sweet incense in worship highlights the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity. It serves as a reminder of the need for intercession and the role of the priesthood in mediating between God and His people. The incense's perpetual burning signifies the continual nature of prayer and worship, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. Modern Reflections While the physical practice of burning incense as described in the Old Testament is not a part of contemporary Christian worship, the spiritual principles it embodies remain relevant. The concept of prayer as a fragrant offering to God continues to inspire believers to approach Him with sincerity and devotion, seeking to live lives that are pleasing in His sight. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Sweet IncenseSWEET INCENSE See SPICES. Strong's Hebrew 7004. qetoreth -- smoke, odor of (burning) sacrifice, incense... sweet incense, perfume. From qatar; a fumigation -- (sweet) incense, perfume. see HEBREW qatar. 7003, 7004. qetoreth. 7005 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/7004.htm - 6k 5561. sam -- spice (used in incense) 5208. nichoach -- soothing, tranquilizing Library The Immortal Prayers of the Saints Sikera, a Manufactured and Spurious Wine, yet Intoxicating; Things ... Will any one Say that Incense is Given to the Celestials... The Altar of Incense January 2 Evening The Copies of Things in the Heavens Of the Duties which we are to Perform after Receiving the Holy ... The Incense of Prayer Sermon for Epiphany "Whereby we Cry, Abba, Father. " Resources Why did Jesus teach in parables? | GotQuestions.orgIs speeding a sin? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to be in the presence of God? | GotQuestions.org Sweet: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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