Incense holds a significant place in biblical symbolism, representing prayer, worship, and the presence of God. Its use is deeply rooted in the religious practices of ancient Israel and carries forward into the New Testament, symbolizing the prayers of the saints and the divine presence.

Old Testament Usage

In the Old Testament, incense is primarily associated with the Tabernacle and later the Temple worship. God commanded Moses to make an altar of incense, as described in Exodus 30:1-10. The altar was placed before the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, signifying its role in mediating between God and His people. The incense burned on this altar was a special blend, as specified in Exodus 30:34-38, and was considered holy, set apart for God alone.

The burning of incense was a daily ritual performed by the priests, symbolizing the prayers of the Israelites ascending to God. Psalm 141:2 captures this imagery: "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering." The fragrant smoke rising from the altar served as a visual representation of the prayers and worship of the people reaching the divine throne.

New Testament Symbolism

In the New Testament, the symbolism of incense continues, particularly in the Book of Revelation. Revelation 5:8 describes the twenty-four elders holding golden bowls full of incense, "which are the prayers of the saints." This imagery reinforces the connection between incense and prayer, illustrating how the prayers of believers are precious and pleasing to God.

Revelation 8:3-4 further elaborates on this symbolism: "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." Here, incense is directly linked to the intercessory role of Christ and the heavenly worship, emphasizing the importance of prayer in the life of the believer.

Spiritual Significance

The use of incense in Scripture underscores the importance of purity and holiness in worship. Just as the incense was a specific, sacred blend, so too are the prayers of the faithful to be offered with sincerity and devotion. The fragrant aroma of incense symbolizes the pleasing nature of genuine worship and prayer to God.

Moreover, incense signifies the presence of God among His people. In the Old Testament, the cloud of incense in the Tabernacle and Temple was a tangible reminder of God's nearness. This symbolism is echoed in the New Testament, where the presence of God is made manifest through the prayers and worship of the church.

Conclusion

The symbolism of incense in the Bible is rich and multifaceted, representing prayer, worship, and the divine presence. It serves as a reminder of the sacredness of approaching God and the importance of offering our prayers and worship with a pure heart. Through the imagery of incense, believers are encouraged to maintain a life of prayer and devotion, knowing that their prayers are a fragrant offering to the Lord.