Topical Encyclopedia Frankincense, a fragrant resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia, holds significant historical and religious importance, particularly in biblical times. Its use in religious rituals, offerings, and as a valuable trade commodity is well-documented throughout the Scriptures.Biblical References and Usage Frankincense is frequently mentioned in the Bible, often in the context of worship and offerings. In Exodus 30:34-36 , God instructs Moses on the preparation of a sacred incense blend, which includes frankincense, to be used in the Tent of Meeting. This highlights its role in the sacred rituals of the Israelites: "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.'" In Leviticus 2:1-2 , frankincense is specified as a component of grain offerings: "When anyone presents an offering of grain to the LORD, his offering shall consist 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 olive oil, together with all the frankincense, and burn this memorial portion on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD." Commerce and Trade The trade of frankincense was a significant aspect of ancient commerce, particularly in the Arabian Peninsula, where the Boswellia trees are native. The demand for frankincense extended beyond Israel, reaching into Egypt, Greece, Rome, and other parts of the ancient world. This demand facilitated the development of trade routes, such as the Incense Route, which connected the Arabian Peninsula with the Mediterranean and beyond. The wealth generated from the frankincense trade contributed to the prosperity of several ancient civilizations. The Nabataeans, for example, controlled much of the trade routes and amassed considerable wealth by taxing the caravans that transported frankincense and other goods. Prophetic and Symbolic Significance Frankincense also holds prophetic and symbolic significance in the Bible. In Isaiah 60:6 , the prophet envisions a future where nations will bring gifts, including frankincense, to honor the Lord: "Caravans of camels will cover your land—young camels of Midian and Ephah—all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and frankincense and proclaiming the praises of the LORD." The New Testament further underscores the importance of frankincense in the account of the Magi visiting the infant Jesus. In Matthew 2:11 , the Magi present gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, symbolizing Jesus' kingship, divinity, and eventual suffering: "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." Cultural and Economic Impact The commerce in frankincense not only influenced the economies of ancient societies but also played a role in cultural exchanges. As traders and caravans moved along the Incense Route, they facilitated the exchange of ideas, technologies, and cultural practices, contributing to the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations. In summary, frankincense was a highly valued commodity in biblical times, integral to religious practices and a catalyst for trade and cultural exchange. Its significance is reflected in its frequent mention in Scripture and its enduring legacy in the history of commerce and worship. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 18:11-13And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn over her; for no man buys their merchandise any more: Nave's Topical Index Library But we are Called to Account as Harm-Doers on Another Ground... The Destruction of Babylon. Prayer Perfumed with Praise Eastern Wise-Men, or Magi, visit Jesus, the New-Born King. Grecian Literature, and the Roman Empire. Canaan The Nations of the South-East A Bundle of Myrrh The Sixth vision "On Earth" The Mystery Resources What is Epiphany / Three Kings' Day and should Christians celebrate it? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about purity? | GotQuestions.org Questions about Christmas | 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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