What is the meaning of Exodus 35:15? the altar of incense with its poles Exodus 35:15 singles out “the altar of incense with its poles,” highlighting a small but crucial piece of tabernacle furniture. • The altar itself (Exodus 30:1-10) stood just outside the veil, constantly symbolizing intercession. Morning and evening, fragrant smoke rose, picturing unbroken prayer (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 8:3-4). • The poles remind us that everything in God’s dwelling had to be carried exactly as prescribed (Numbers 4:11). Holiness does not bend to convenience. • By listing the altar again during the assembly phase, Scripture underlines that prayer is not an accessory—it is indispensable. When the incense ascended, Israel knew God was accessible; today we come “through Jesus, who always lives to intercede for us” (Hebrews 7:25). the anointing oil and fragrant incense • The anointing oil (Exodus 30:22-33) set priests and objects apart exclusively for God. Anyone who tried to copy the formula was cut off, underscoring that God’s presence cannot be manufactured. New-covenant believers experience the true anointing—the Holy Spirit—who “abides in you” (1 John 2:20-27). • The fragrant incense (Exodus 30:34-38) blended costly spices, releasing aroma only when burned. Genuine worship often involves sacrifice (Philippians 4:18; Ephesians 5:2). • By coupling oil and incense, the verse links consecration and worship: those God sets apart are the very ones whose prayers delight Him (Revelation 5:8). the curtain for the doorway at the entrance to the tabernacle • This curtain (Exodus 26:36-37) formed the first threshold. Anyone entering stepped immediately from the camp’s dust into holy space. Boundaries protect blessing; they are not burdens (Psalm 84:10). • Woven in blue, purple, and scarlet, the fabric announced royalty and redemption (cf. Matthew 27:28-29; Revelation 19:13-16). • Jesus applied the image to Himself: “I am the door. If anyone enters through Me, he will be saved” (John 10:9). Because His flesh became our veil and was torn (Hebrews 10:19-20), the way into God’s presence now stands open, yet remains the only way. summary Exodus 35:15 revisits three items—incense altar, anointing oil with incense, and entrance curtain—to stress that genuine worship involves prayer, consecration, and guarded access. God designed every detail, and every detail points to Christ, who fulfills and secures our continual, fragrant fellowship with the Father. |
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