Topical Encyclopedia The incense-altar, also known as the altar of incense, holds significant importance in the worship practices of ancient Israel as described in the Old Testament. It was a key component of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, serving as a place where incense was burned as an offering to God.Biblical Description and Construction The instructions for the construction of the incense-altar are detailed in Exodus 30:1-10. 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 had horns on its four corners, also overlaid with gold, and a gold molding around it. The altar was equipped with gold rings on two sides, through which poles, also made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, were inserted for carrying. Placement 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 Covenant, where the presence of God dwelt. The primary function of the altar was for the burning of incense, a fragrant offering that symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God. Exodus 30:7-8 states, "Aaron must 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." Significance in Worship The incense burned on the altar was a special blend, as specified in Exodus 30:34-38, and was considered holy. The burning of incense was a daily ritual, signifying the continual prayers and intercession of the priests on behalf of the people. The sweet aroma was pleasing to the Lord, symbolizing the worship and devotion of His people. Restrictions and Regulations The use of the incense-altar came with strict regulations. Unauthorized incense or offerings were prohibited, as seen in the account of Nadab and Abihu, who offered unauthorized fire before the Lord and were consumed by fire as a result (Leviticus 10:1-2). The altar was also to be purified annually with the blood of the sin offering, as described in Exodus 30:10: "Once a year Aaron is to make atonement on its horns. Throughout your generations, he is to make atonement on it once a year with the blood of the sin offering of atonement. It is most holy to the LORD." Symbolism and Typology The incense-altar is rich in symbolism, representing the prayers and intercessions of the saints. In the New Testament, this symbolism is echoed in Revelation 8:3-4, where the prayers of the saints are depicted as rising before God with the smoke of the incense. The altar also points to the mediatory work of Christ, who intercedes on behalf of believers, as described in Hebrews 7:25. Historical and Theological Context The incense-altar was a central element in the worship life of Israel, reflecting the holiness and majesty of God. It underscored the need for purity and reverence in approaching the divine presence. Theologically, it emphasized the importance of prayer and intercession, both in the life of the individual believer and the community of faith. The altar of incense, therefore, serves as a powerful reminder of the continual need for prayer and the sweet aroma of a life devoted to God. Strong's Hebrew 4729c. meqatterah -- incense altar... 4729b, 4729c. meqatterah. 4730 . incense altar. Transliteration: meqatterah Short Definition: altars. Word Origin from the same ... /hebrew/4729c.htm - 5k Library Index. Praises and Vows Accepted in Zion The Home Scene. The Saints' Privilege and Profit; Thesaurus Incense-altar (2 Occurrences)Incense-altar. Incense, Incense-altar. Incense-altars . Multi-Version Concordance Incense-altar (2 Occurrences). Exodus ... /i/incense-altar.htm - 7k Incense-altars (1 Occurrence) Foursquare (10 Occurrences) Blew (37 Occurrences) Staffs (47 Occurrences) Incense (167 Occurrences) Trumpet (74 Occurrences) Horn (108 Occurrences) Staves (50 Occurrences) Shittim (34 Occurrences) Resources What was the significance of the altar of incense? | GotQuestions.orgCan a Christian burn incense? What does the Bible say about burning incense? | GotQuestions.org What is an altar? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Incense-altar (2 Occurrences)Exodus 35:15 Exodus 37:25 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |