Exodus 30:35
And thou shalt make it a perfume, a confection after the arte of the Apothecarie, tempered together, pure and holy. Exodus 30:35 (KJV)
The passage under study is part of the detailed instructions God gave Moses for constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The Tabernacle served as a portable sanctuary and the focal point of Israel’s worship during their wilderness journey. Within its sacred space God commanded the making of an altar specifically for burning incense, to be fashioned from shittim (acacia) wood. This altar stood inside the Tabernacle, just before the inner veil that separated the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies, marking it as a holy piece of furniture.
Incense held deep symbolic meaning in Israelite worship. The rising smoke represented the prayers of the people ascending to God (cf. Psalm 141:2) and was regarded as a pleasing fragrance to Him (cf. Psalm 34:1). The Book of Revelation also portrays incense as a symbol of the saints’ prayers (Rev 5:8). By prescribing the exact materials and construction of the altar, God emphasized reverence, obedience, and the importance of worshiping a holy God according to His design.
The choice of shittim wood was not accidental. Its durability has been understood to symbolize the enduring nature of God’s covenant and the steadfast devotion required of His people. This material detail reinforces the theological truth that God’s covenant is lasting and reliable.
Spiritually, the altar of incense reminds believers of the central role of prayer. Just as incense signified Israel’s prayers, today our prayers connect us with God, seek His guidance, express gratitude, and intercede for others. The altar also serves as a type of Christ. Jesus, our High Priest (Heb 4:14‑16), intercedes for us before the Father (Rom 8:34), and the sweet‑smelling incense points to His perfect sacrifice and atoning work on the cross (Eph 5:2).
Overall, the instructions concerning the altar of incense underscore the significance of worship, prayer, and meticulous obedience. They reveal how the details of Israel’s worship practices point forward to Christ, the ultimate High Priest and Mediator between God and humanity.
