Leviticus 24:7

And thou shalt put pure frankincense vpon ech row, that it may bee on the bread for a memorial, euen an offering made by fire vnto the Lord. Leviticus 24:7 (KJV)

Leviticus, the third book of the Old Testament, records the laws and regulations given by God to the Israelites through Moses. Chapter 24 contains detailed instructions concerning the tabernacle, the priesthood, and the various offerings prescribed for worship. Verse 7 specifically directs that pure frankincense be placed on each row of the bread, making it a memorial offering that is presented to the Lord by fire.

Frankincense is a fragrant gum resin harvested from certain trees. Throughout Scripture it is linked with worship and is understood to symbolize prayer and intercession. As a key ingredient of the sacred incense, its pleasing aroma was highly prized and served as a tangible expression of devotion to God. In this verse the use of pure frankincense represents the offering of worship and the heartfelt prayers of the people.

The “bread” mentioned is the Bread of the Presence, also called the Showbread. Twelve loaves were prepared each week and set on a table in the Holy Place of the tabernacle, arranged in two rows. The twelve loaves symbolized the twelve tribes of Israel and stood as a continual offering before the Lord. Frankincense was sprinkled on each row, turning the bread into a living memorial that reminded God of His provision and the people’s gratitude.

The phrase “offering made by fire” indicates that a portion of the frankincense accompanying the bread was burned on the altar, while the bread itself remained on the table. This dual action emphasizes both the sacrificial element—burning the fragrant incense as a sign of surrender—and the ongoing presence of the bread as a representation of the covenant community.

Spiritual lessons flow from this practice. First, the placement of frankincense teaches the importance of worshiping God with our whole being, continually offering prayers, praise, and thanksgiving. Second, the rising aroma of the incense illustrates how our prayers become a sweet fragrance to the Lord, pleasing Him as they ascend. Finally, the burning of the frankincense (and the dedication of the bread) symbolizes surrender and consecration, calling believers to offer their lives as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God (cf. Romans 12:1). In sum, Leviticus 24:7 underscores the centrality of worship, the power of prayer, and the call to live a life wholly devoted to the Lord.