Exodus 39:38

the gold altar, the anointing oil, the fragrant incense, and the curtain for the entrance to the tent;

Study Bible

the gold altar
This phrase refers to the altar of incense, which was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold, as described in Exodus 30:1-3. The Hebrew word for "altar" is "mizbeach," which signifies a place of sacrifice or offering. The use of gold symbolizes purity, divinity, and the preciousness of the worship offered to God. Historically, the gold altar was placed in the Holy Place, just before the veil that separated it from the Holy of Holies, signifying the prayers of the people ascending to God. Theologically, it represents the intercessory work of Christ, who continually offers prayers on behalf of believers.

the anointing oil
This sacred oil was used to consecrate the priests and the tabernacle, setting them apart for holy service. The Hebrew term "shemen hamishchah" indicates a special blend of spices and olive oil, as detailed in Exodus 30:22-25. Anointing with oil in the ancient Near East symbolized empowerment by the Spirit of God, marking individuals or objects as holy and dedicated to divine purposes. In a broader scriptural context, anointing oil prefigures the Holy Spirit, who anoints believers for service and sanctification.

the fragrant incense
The incense, made from a specific recipe given by God (Exodus 30:34-38), was burned on the gold altar. The Hebrew word "ketoret" refers to this aromatic blend, which produced a pleasing aroma when burned. Incense in the Bible often symbolizes prayer and worship, as seen in Psalm 141:2 and Revelation 8:3-4. The fragrance represents the pleasing nature of sincere worship and prayer to God, emphasizing the importance of approaching Him with reverence and purity.

the curtain for the entrance to the tent
This curtain, or "masak" in Hebrew, served as the entrance to the tabernacle, separating the outer court from the Holy Place. It was made of fine linen and blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, as described in Exodus 26:36-37. The curtain's colors and craftsmanship reflect the majesty and holiness of God, reminding the Israelites of the sacredness of approaching His presence. In a New Testament context, the curtain symbolizes the barrier between God and humanity, which was ultimately torn down through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, granting believers direct access to God (Matthew 27:51, Hebrews 10:19-20).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Gold Altar
This refers to the altar of incense, which was made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. It was placed in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God.

2. The Anointing Oil
A sacred mixture used to consecrate the priests and the Tabernacle, signifying the setting apart of people and objects for God's service.

3. The Fragrant Incense
A special blend of spices burned on the gold altar, representing the prayers and worship of the Israelites rising to God.

4. The Curtain for the Entrance to the Tent
This curtain separated the Holy Place from the outer court, symbolizing the barrier between God and humanity that was later torn at Christ's crucifixion.

5. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites, representing God's desire to dwell with His people.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Prayer
The gold altar and incense remind us of the importance of prayer in our relationship with God. Just as incense was a pleasing aroma, our prayers are a sweet offering to the Lord.

Consecration and Holiness
The anointing oil signifies the need for holiness and being set apart for God's purposes. As believers, we are called to live consecrated lives, dedicated to His service.

Access to God
The curtain represents the separation that sin causes between humanity and God. Through Christ, this barrier is removed, and we have direct access to the Father.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle illustrates God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and God dwells within us.

Worship and Reverence
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings teach us the importance of approaching God with reverence and worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the symbolism of the gold altar and incense enhance your understanding of the role of prayer in your life?

2. In what ways can you apply the concept of being anointed and set apart for God's service in your daily activities?

3. How does the tearing of the curtain at Jesus' crucifixion impact your view of access to God and your personal relationship with Him?

4. Reflect on the presence of God in your life. How can you cultivate a greater awareness of His dwelling within you?

5. Considering the reverence shown in the construction and use of the Tabernacle, how can you incorporate a greater sense of worship and reverence in your spiritual practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The gold altar and incense are connected to Revelation, where the prayers of the saints are depicted as incense before God.

The anointing oil is linked to the New Testament concept of believers being anointed by the Holy Spirit.

The curtain's tearing at Jesus' death in the Gospels signifies the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting direct access to God through Christ.