What is the meaning of Exodus 30:7? And Aaron is to burn • Aaron, the first high priest, is singled out to underscore that this ministry belongs to the priesthood alone (Exodus 28:1; Hebrews 5:1). • The action word “burn” links to sacrifice and mediation—Aaron acts as a representative between God and the people, much as he does on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:11-13). • By commanding Aaron, the LORD is emphasizing obedience; blessing flows when God’s precise instructions are carried out (1 Samuel 15:22). fragrant incense • Incense in Scripture pictures the prayers of God’s people rising before Him (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8). • Its fragrance points to a pleasing, acceptable offering—only a specific blend was permitted (Exodus 30:34-38), reminding us that God—not man—defines true worship. • The sweetness hints at Christ’s own sacrifice, “a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:2), foreshadowing the ultimate mediation fulfilled in Him. on it • “It” is the golden altar of incense placed just outside the veil before the Most Holy Place (Exodus 30:1-6). • Location matters: while the bronze altar dealt with sin outside, the golden altar stood nearer to God’s presence, highlighting fellowship and communion (Hebrews 9:4). • The exclusive use of this altar for incense alone (Exodus 30:9) shows that prayer does not share space with other activities—God invites undivided attention. every morning • The service was daily and continual, mirroring the perpetual burnt offering (Exodus 29:38-42). • Faithfulness at sunrise teaches constancy in devotion; God’s mercies are “new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23), and His people respond with daily worship. • Morning incense set the tone for the day, just as beginning with prayer aligns the believer’s heart to God’s purposes (Mark 1:35). when he tends the lamps • Lamp maintenance happened at dawn and dusk (Exodus 27:20-21). Coupling light with incense joins illumination and intercession. • The priest ensured the lampstand burned continually; similarly, prayer keeps spiritual light shining (Matthew 5:14-16). • In Revelation 1:12-13 Christ walks among the lampstands, indicating His presence with the church; the link with incense encourages believers to combine witness and prayer. summary Exodus 30:7 presents a daily picture of priestly devotion: Aaron, God’s chosen mediator, offers fragrant incense on the golden altar each morning while trimming the lamps. The verse weaves together obedience, prayer, fellowship, constancy, and light—elements that point ahead to Christ and invite every believer into a rhythm of faithful, morning-by-morning communion with the LORD. |