Topical Bible: Frankincense used With Showbread

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Introduction

Frankincense, a fragrant resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia, holds significant importance in biblical worship and rituals. Its use is deeply rooted in the religious practices of ancient Israel, particularly in the context of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. One of the notable uses of frankincense in the Bible is its association with the showbread, also known as the "bread of the Presence."

Biblical Context

The showbread was a sacred offering placed on a table in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, as described in the Old Testament. According to the instructions given to Moses, twelve loaves of bread, representing the twelve tribes of Israel, were to be set before the Lord every Sabbath. The showbread symbolized God's perpetual covenant with Israel and His provision for His people.

Frankincense and the Showbread

The use of frankincense with the showbread is specifically mentioned in the book of Leviticus. In Leviticus 24:5-7 , the Lord commands Moses: "You are to take fine flour and bake twelve loaves of bread, using two-tenths of an ephah for each loaf. Arrange them in two rows—six per row—on the table of pure gold before the LORD. And you are to place pure frankincense near each row, so that it may serve as a memorial portion for the bread, an offering made by fire to the LORD."

The placement of frankincense alongside the showbread served a dual purpose. Firstly, it acted as a memorial portion, a fragrant offering to the Lord, symbolizing the prayers and devotion of the Israelites. Secondly, it sanctified the bread, setting it apart as holy and dedicated to God.

Symbolism and Significance

Frankincense, with its sweet and pleasing aroma, is often associated with prayer and worship in the Bible. Its use with the showbread underscores the importance of purity and holiness in the offerings made to God. The fragrant smoke rising from the burning frankincense is symbolic of the prayers of the faithful ascending to heaven, as seen in Psalm 141:2 : "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering."

The inclusion of frankincense with the showbread also highlights the concept of remembrance. The memorial portion served as a constant reminder of God's covenant and His sustaining presence among His people. It emphasized the need for continual worship and acknowledgment of God's provision.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the use of frankincense with the showbread points to the centrality of worship and the necessity of offering our best to God. It reflects the idea that worship is not merely a ritualistic act but a heartfelt expression of devotion and gratitude. The presence of frankincense signifies the sanctity of the offerings and the reverence due to God.

Furthermore, the showbread and frankincense together foreshadow the ultimate provision and presence of God through Jesus Christ, who is the "bread of life" (John 6:35). Just as the showbread was a continual offering before the Lord, Christ's sacrifice is the eternal offering that sustains and redeems His people.

Conclusion

The use of frankincense with the showbread in the biblical narrative serves as a profound reminder of the holiness and reverence required in worship. It symbolizes the prayers and devotion of the faithful, the perpetual covenant between God and His people, and the ultimate fulfillment of God's provision through Christ.

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Leviticus 24:7
And you shall put pure frankincense on each row, that it may be on the bread for a memorial, even an offering made by fire to the LORD.
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