Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionIncense in the biblical context refers to a fragrant substance that, when burned, produces a pleasing aroma. It was an integral part of worship and ritual in ancient Israel, symbolizing prayer and the presence of God. The use of incense is detailed in various parts of the Old Testament, particularly in the context of the Tabernacle and the Temple. One notable incident involving incense is the account of King Uzziah, whose actions provide a significant lesson on the boundaries of sacred duties. Biblical Account King Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was one of the kings of Judah who reigned in the 8th century BC. His reign is noted for its military successes and prosperity, as well as his initial faithfulness to God. However, Uzziah's account takes a pivotal turn concerning the use of incense, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 26. The Bible recounts that Uzziah, in his pride and strength, overstepped his bounds by entering the Temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense. This act was a direct violation of the divine order, as the burning of incense was a duty reserved exclusively for the priests, the descendants of Aaron. The Berean Standard Bible states: "But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction, for he transgressed against the LORD his God by entering the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense." (2 Chronicles 26:16) Azariah the priest, along with eighty other courageous priests, confronted Uzziah, warning him of his transgression. Despite their admonition, Uzziah persisted, and as a result, he was struck with leprosy, a condition that remained with him until his death. The BSB records: "Uzziah, who had a censer in his hand ready to burn incense, became angry. But while he raged against the priests in their presence before the incense altar in the house of the LORD, leprosy broke out on his forehead." (2 Chronicles 26:19) Theological Significance The incident of Uzziah burning incense serves as a profound reminder of the sanctity of God's commandments and the established order of worship. It underscores the principle that certain roles and responsibilities within the worship of God are divinely appointed and not to be assumed by those outside of God's specific calling. Uzziah's punishment illustrates the seriousness with which God views the observance of His laws and the respect for the priestly office. Symbolism of Incense In the broader biblical narrative, incense symbolizes the prayers of the faithful ascending to God. This is evident in passages such as Psalm 141:2, where David prays, "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering." The imagery of incense as a representation of prayer is further echoed in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Revelation, where the prayers of the saints are depicted as incense before the throne of God (Revelation 5:8). Conclusion The account of Uzziah and the burning of incense is a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the importance of adhering to God's ordained structure for worship. It serves as a reminder of the holiness of God and the reverence due to Him in all acts of worship. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 26:16-21But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he transgressed against the LORD his God, and went into the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense. Nave's Topical Index Library Concerning Jeroboam King of Israel and Jonah the Prophet; and How ... The Call of Isaiah Prayer Obedience On the Management of the Resources Collected for the Support of ... Vision and SerVice The Kingdom Op Judah. On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God ... Discussion of the Subject of Permission The Work of the Holy Spirit Resources Who was Korah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the strange fire in Leviticus 10:1? | GotQuestions.org What is the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth? | GotQuestions.org Incense: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Incense for God's Service Mixed With Sweet Spices Incense of an Acceptable Sacrifice Incense used in Idolatrous Worship Incense: An Article of Extensive Commerce Incense: Common, not to be offered to God Incense: Compounded by Bezaleel Incense: Designed for Atonement Incense: Formula for Compounding Incense: Korah and his Company Punished for offering Incense: Korah, Dathan, and Abiram Incense: Levites had Charge of Incense: Nadab and Abihu Destroyed for offering, With Strange Fire Incense: None But Priest to offer Incense: Offered by Nadab and Abihu in an Unauthorized Manner Incense: Offered by the High Priest in the Most Holy Place on the Day of Incense: Offered in Idolatrous Worship Incense: Offered Morning and Evening Incense: Offered with Fire from off the Altar of Burnt offering Incense: Offered: Morning and Evening Incense: Offered: On the Altar of Gold Incense: Offering of, Allotted to the Priests Incense: Presented by the Wise Men to Jesus Incense: Presented to Christ by the Wise Men Incense: Put on Meat offerings Incense: Symbolical of the Prayers of Saints Incense: The Jews Prayed at Time of offering Incense: The Jews: Not Accepted in offering, on Account of Sin Incense: The Jews: Offered, to Idols on Altars of Brick Incense: The Jews: Punished for offering, to Idols Incense: Uzziah Punished for offering Related Terms Incense-burners (1 Occurrence) |
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