Topical Encyclopedia Frankincense, a fragrant resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia, holds significant historical and religious importance, particularly within the context of the Bible. This aromatic substance is mentioned numerous times throughout the Scriptures, often associated with worship, offerings, and divine presence.Biblical References and Usage Frankincense is first introduced in the Bible in the context of sacred offerings. In Exodus 30:34-36, God instructs Moses on the preparation of a holy incense blend, which includes frankincense: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha, and galbanum—and pure frankincense, all in equal measures, and make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy.'" This passage highlights the role of frankincense in the worship practices of ancient Israel, where it was used in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple as a symbol of prayer and devotion ascending to God. In Leviticus 2:1-2, frankincense is also mentioned as part of the grain offering: "When anyone presents an offering of grain to the LORD, his offering shall be of fine flour. He is to pour olive oil on it, put frankincense on it, and bring it to Aaron’s sons the priests. The priest shall then take a handful of fine flour and oil, together with all the frankincense, and burn this memorial portion on the altar, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD." Here, frankincense serves as a fragrant addition to offerings, symbolizing the worshiper's dedication and the pleasing nature of their sacrifice to God. Symbolism and Significance Frankincense's use in the Bible extends beyond its physical properties as a perfume. It carries deep symbolic meaning, often representing purity, holiness, and the divine presence. The rising smoke of burning frankincense is frequently seen as a metaphor for prayers ascending to heaven, as reflected in Psalm 141:2: "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering." The prophetic and messianic significance of frankincense is notably highlighted in the New Testament. In Matthew 2:11, the Magi present gifts to the infant Jesus, including frankincense: "On coming to the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary, and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh." This gift is often interpreted as a recognition of Jesus' priestly role and His divine nature, as frankincense was traditionally associated with worship and the presence of God. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near East, frankincense was a highly valued commodity, often traded along the Incense Route that connected the Arabian Peninsula with the Mediterranean world. Its rarity and cost made it a luxury item, reserved for religious ceremonies and royal occasions. The use of frankincense in biblical times reflects its esteemed status and the reverence with which it was regarded. Conclusion Frankincense, as depicted in the Bible, is more than a mere perfume; it is a profound symbol of worship, prayer, and divine connection. Its presence in both the Old and New Testaments underscores its enduring significance in the spiritual life of God's people, serving as a fragrant reminder of the sacred and the holy. Nave's Topical Index Songs 3:6Who is this that comes out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all powders of the merchant? Nave's Topical Index Library Prayer and Sacrifice Explained by the Similitude of a Perfume ... Until the Day Break and the Shadows Flee Away, I Will Get Me to ... The Royal Pair in their Glorious Chariot The Precious Ointment. Fragrant Graces The Box of Ointment. Sermon for Epiphany Prayer Perfumed with Praise But we are Called to Account as Harm-Doers on Another Ground... Of the Duties which we are to Perform after Receiving the Holy ... Resources What is a grain offering? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus Christ is the cornerstone? | GotQuestions.org What is the Massacre of the Innocents? | GotQuestions.org Frankincense: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Frankincense in Making an offering of Memorial Frankincense used As an Incense Frankincense used With Meat offerings Frankincense used With Showbread Frankincense: An Ingredient of the Sacred Oil Frankincense: Prohibited, in Sin offerings when They Consist of Turtledoves or Pigeons Related Terms Meal-offerings (9 Occurrences) Meal-offering (120 Occurrences) Fire-offering (45 Occurrences) Meat-offering (111 Occurrences) |
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