Introduction

The Incense Altar, also known as the Altar of Incense, is a significant element in the worship practices of ancient Israel as described in the Old Testament. It was an integral part of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, serving as a focal point for the offering of incense, which symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God. The instructions for its construction and use are detailed in the Pentateuch, particularly in the book of Exodus.

Biblical Description

The Incense Altar is first mentioned in Exodus 30:1-10, where God provides Moses with specific instructions for its construction. The altar was to be made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold, measuring a cubit in length and width and two cubits in height. It was to have horns on its corners, also overlaid with gold, and a gold molding around it. Rings of gold were to be attached to its sides to hold poles for carrying, also made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold.

Location and Function

The Incense Altar was placed in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle, in front of the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Exodus 30:6). It stood before the Ark of the Testimony, where God promised to meet with Moses. The primary function of the altar was for the burning of incense, which was to be offered by Aaron, the high priest, every morning and evening when he tended the lamps of the golden lampstand (Exodus 30:7-8).

Significance of Incense

The incense used on the altar was a specific blend of spices, as detailed in Exodus 30:34-38. This sacred mixture was not to be used for any other purpose, emphasizing its holiness and the sanctity of worship. The burning of incense symbolized the prayers of the Israelites rising to God, as reflected in Psalm 141:2: "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering."

Atonement and Holiness

Once a year, on the Day of Atonement, the high priest was to make atonement on the horns of the altar with the blood of the sin offering (Exodus 30:10). This act underscored the altar's role in the atonement process and the need for purification and holiness in approaching God.

The Incense Altar in the Temple

The Incense Altar continued to play a vital role in the worship practices of Israel after the construction of Solomon's Temple. In 1 Kings 7:48, it is mentioned as part of the furnishings made for the Temple. The altar's presence in the Temple signified the continuity of worship practices from the Tabernacle to the more permanent structure of the Temple.

Symbolism in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the imagery of incense and the altar is carried forward, symbolizing the prayers of the saints. Revelation 8:3-4 describes an angel offering incense on the golden altar before the throne of God, with the smoke of the incense representing the prayers of the saints ascending before God.

Conclusion

The Incense Altar holds a significant place in the worship practices of ancient Israel, symbolizing the prayers and intercession of the people before God. Its detailed construction and use reflect the importance of holiness and reverence in approaching the divine presence.