Exodus 35:15

And the incense altar, and his staves, and the anointing oil, and the sweet incense, and the hanging for the door at the entering in of the tabernacle,

Exodus 35:15 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to Moses’ instructions to Israel for building the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary used during the wilderness journey after the exodus from Egypt. The list names specific items for the Tabernacle’s service: the incense altar with its staves, the anointing oil, the sweet incense, and the hanging for the door at the entrance. Every detail of worship was specified by God, showing that He cared about how His people approached Him.

Meaning

The incense altar, also called the golden altar, was made of acacia wood overlaid with pure gold (Exodus 37:25-28). It stood in the Holy Place before the veil. The burning of incense symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God as a sweet aroma (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8). The staves were poles used for carrying the altar, overlaid with gold, indicating that it was to be transported with reverence. The anointing oil was a sacred mixture used to consecrate priests and Tabernacle furnishings (Exodus 30:22-33). The sweet incense was a specific blend of fragrant spices burned only on the incense altar (Exodus 30:34-38). The hanging for the door was the screen at the entrance of the Tabernacle, at the east end, where there were no boards or curtains (Exodus 27:16). This screen marked the boundary between the outer court and the Holy Place.

Biblical connections

The completion of these same items is recorded in Exodus 39:38, showing the faithful execution of God’s commands. The incense altar is also connected to the golden altar in Exodus 30:1-10, where its daily use is described. The anointing oil and incense recipes are detailed in Exodus 30:22-38, emphasizing their sacred, non-common use. The door hanging is described in Exodus 27:16, specifying its location at the east entrance. These items were not for ordinary use; they were set apart for God’s service.

Application

The incense altar points to prayer and intercession. Just as the incense rose before God, our prayers rise to Him as a pleasing aroma. The anointing oil points to consecration and the Holy Spirit’s work, setting apart believers for holy service. The sweet incense points to worship acceptable to God, offered according to His instructions. The door hanging points to the one way of access into God’s presence, reminding us that we approach Him only through His appointed means. Each item teaches us something vital about our relationship with God.

Reflection

These sacred objects teach us reverence and dedication in worship. They remind us to follow God’s specific commands in all aspects of service. The care given to each item shows that God values order and holiness. As we consider these furnishings, we can examine our own worship, seeking to approach God with humility and sincerity in prayer, and to honor Him in every detail of our lives. The incense altar, the oil, the incense, and the door hanging all point to the privilege of drawing near to God.