Topical Bible: Incense: Compounded by Bezaleel

◄ Incense: Compounded by Bezaleel ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Incense in the biblical context holds significant spiritual and ceremonial importance, particularly in the worship practices of ancient Israel. The specific incense compounded by Bezaleel is a noteworthy example, as it was divinely ordained and crafted for use in the Tabernacle, the portable dwelling place for the Divine presence among the Israelites.

Biblical Foundation

The instructions for the creation of this sacred incense are found in the Book of Exodus. God commanded Moses to have a special incense made for the Tabernacle, emphasizing its exclusivity and sanctity. Exodus 30:34-38 provides the detailed formula and purpose: "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. Grind some of it into fine powder and place it in front of the Testimony in the Tent of Meeting, where I will meet with you. It shall be most holy to you. You are never to use this formula to make incense for yourselves; you shall regard it as holy to the LORD. Anyone who makes something like it to enjoy its fragrance shall be cut off from his people.'"

Role of Bezaleel

Bezaleel, the son of Uri, was divinely chosen and endowed with the Spirit of God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the sacred incense. Exodus 31:1-5 highlights his divine appointment: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship, to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft.'"

Bezaleel's role was not merely that of a craftsman but of a divinely inspired artisan, entrusted with the sacred task of creating items that would facilitate the worship and presence of God among His people.

Symbolism and Significance

The incense compounded by Bezaleel was not only a physical substance but also a symbol of prayer and divine communication. Psalm 141:2 reflects this symbolic meaning: "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering." The rising smoke of the incense represented the prayers of the Israelites ascending to God, a fragrant offering pleasing to the Lord.

The exclusivity of the incense formula underscored the holiness and separateness of God. It was a tangible reminder of the sacredness of worship and the reverence due to the Almighty. The severe prohibition against replicating the incense for personal use further emphasized its sanctity and the seriousness with which God’s commands were to be regarded.

Ceremonial Use

The incense was used in the Tabernacle as part of the daily rituals performed by the priests. It was burned on the Altar of Incense, which stood before the veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. This daily offering of incense was a perpetual reminder of the need for continual prayer and intercession before God.

In summary, the incense compounded by Bezaleel was a divinely ordained element of Israelite worship, symbolizing prayer, sanctity, and the presence of God. Its creation and use were integral to the spiritual life of the community, reflecting the deep connection between the divine and His chosen people.