And the golden altar, and the anointing oyle, and the sweet incense, and the hanging for the Tabernacle doore: Exodus 39:38 (KJV)
The book of Exodus, the second book of the Bible, continues the narrative of Israel’s journey from slavery in Egypt to freedom and the covenant established at Mount Sinai. In the chapters leading up to Exodus 39, God gave Moses detailed instructions for constructing the Tabernacle—a portable, tent‑like sanctuary where His presence would dwell among the people.
The golden altar mentioned in this verse refers to the Altar of Incense, an important piece of furniture inside the Holy Place. It was fashioned from acacia wood overlaid with pure gold and was used for burning incense. The incense represented the prayers of the people rising to God, symbolizing the sweet aroma of worship and intercession that pleased Him.
The anointing oil was a sacred mixture prepared according to God’s specific formula. It was applied to consecrate the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests who served there. In biblical language, anointing signifies setting apart for God’s special purpose and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
The sweet incense was a blend of fragrant spices and gums reserved exclusively for worship in the Tabernacle. It was to be burned only on the Altar of Incense, and its rising smoke symbolized the prayers and worship of the people ascending toward God.
The hanging for the Tabernacle door was a fine linen curtain embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet threads. It served as the entrance to the Tabernacle’s outer court (and ultimately the Holy Place), reflecting the beauty and craftsmanship devoted to God’s dwelling among His people.
Key Takeaways: The Tabernacle was a tangible representation of God’s desire to dwell among His people and to enjoy a close relationship with them. The golden altar, anointing oil, sweet incense, and the hanging, while not enumerated in the verse itself, embody the themes of worship, prayer, and consecration that permeate Exodus 39. The use of gold and precious materials underscores the reverence and honor given to God in constructing His dwelling place. As believers today, we are reminded that our hearts should become the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit, offering our prayers and worship as a pleasing aroma to God.
