Leviticus 2:15

And you are to put oil and frankincense on it; it is a grain offering.

Study Bible

You are to add
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of obedience in worship. The Hebrew root for "add" is "yasaph," which implies an intentional and purposeful action. In the context of the grain offering, this addition signifies completeness and the enhancement of the offering, reflecting the believer's call to offer their best to God.

oil
Oil in the ancient Near Eastern context was a symbol of richness, blessing, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. The Hebrew word "shemen" is often associated with anointing and consecration. By adding oil, the offering is set apart, symbolizing the sanctification of the believer's life and works. It reminds us of the anointing of the Holy Spirit in the life of a Christian, empowering and purifying our service to God.

and frankincense
Frankincense, or "lebonah" in Hebrew, was a costly and fragrant resin used in worship and offerings. Its inclusion in the grain offering represents prayer and praise ascending to God, as seen in Psalm 141:2, where prayer is likened to incense. Historically, frankincense was a valuable trade commodity, symbolizing the preciousness of our worship and devotion to God. It calls believers to offer their worship with sincerity and reverence.

to it
This phrase underscores the specific nature of the offering. The grain offering, or "minchah" in Hebrew, was a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude and dedication to God. The specificity of the instructions highlights the importance of following God's ordained methods of worship, reflecting a heart aligned with His will.

it is a grain offering
The grain offering was a significant part of the Levitical sacrificial system, representing the fruits of human labor and the acknowledgment of God's provision. The Hebrew term "minchah" denotes a gift or tribute, symbolizing the believer's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and provision. In a broader scriptural context, it points to the ultimate offering of Christ, who fulfills all offerings and sacrifices, inviting believers to live lives of continual worship and thanksgiving.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai and communicated them to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The recipients of the laws, who were to follow these instructions as part of their covenant relationship with God.

3. Grain Offering
A type of offering made to God, consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving.

4. Oil
Represents the Holy Spirit and anointing, used in offerings to signify consecration and sanctification.

5. Frankincense
A fragrant resin used in worship, symbolizing prayer and the pleasing aroma of a life dedicated to God.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Offering
The grain offering represents our dedication and thanksgiving to God. Just as the Israelites added oil and frankincense, we are to offer our lives with the anointing of the Holy Spirit and the fragrance of prayer.

Role of the Holy Spirit
The oil in the offering signifies the Holy Spirit's work in our lives. We are called to live Spirit-filled lives, allowing His presence to consecrate our actions and thoughts.

Prayer as a Fragrant Offering
Frankincense symbolizes prayer. Our prayers should rise to God as a pleasing aroma, reflecting a heart fully devoted to Him.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are to present ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This involves daily dedication and a lifestyle of worship.

Thanksgiving and Worship
The grain offering was an act of thanksgiving. We are encouraged to cultivate a heart of gratitude, recognizing God's provision and grace in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of oil and frankincense in the grain offering enhance its significance in worship?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the symbolism of the grain offering into our daily lives as living sacrifices?

3. How does the role of the Holy Spirit, represented by the oil, influence our understanding of consecration and sanctification?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure our prayers are like the fragrant incense described in the Bible?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of thanksgiving and worship in response to God's provision, as exemplified by the grain offering?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:34-38
Discusses the use of frankincense in the holy incense, highlighting its role in worship and prayer.

Psalm 141:2
Compares prayer to incense, connecting the offering's aroma to the prayers of the faithful.

Matthew 2:11
The Magi's gifts to Jesus included frankincense, symbolizing His priestly role and the worship due to Him.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the dedication symbolized by the grain offering.

Hebrews 13:15-16
Speaks of offering a sacrifice of praise and doing good, reflecting the spirit of the grain offering.