Leviticus 24:7

And you are to place pure frankincense near each row, so that it may serve as a memorial portion for the bread, an offering made by fire to the LORD.

Study Bible

And you are to place
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to Moses, emphasizing the importance of obedience in worship practices. The Hebrew root for "place" is "שׂוּם" (sum), which means to set, appoint, or establish. This conveys the intentionality and precision required in the service of God, reflecting the broader biblical theme of order and reverence in worship.

pure frankincense
Frankincense, known in Hebrew as "לְבוֹנָה" (levonah), was a valuable resin used in ancient religious rituals. The adjective "pure" underscores the necessity for offerings to be unblemished and of the highest quality, symbolizing the purity and holiness required in approaching God. Historically, frankincense was a luxury item, often imported from Arabia, signifying the dedication and sacrifice involved in worship.

near each row
The bread of the Presence was arranged in two rows on the table in the Tabernacle. The placement of frankincense "near each row" signifies the close relationship between the offering and the bread, symbolizing God's provision and the sustenance He provides. This arrangement reflects the meticulous care in the presentation of offerings, highlighting the sacredness of the space and the act of worship.

so that it may serve as a memorial portion
The term "memorial portion" comes from the Hebrew "אַזְכָּרָה" (azkarah), which means a remembrance or reminder. This indicates that the offering was not only a physical act but also a spiritual one, intended to bring to mind God's covenant and faithfulness. It serves as a reminder of the Israelites' dependence on God and His continual provision.

for the bread
The bread of the Presence, or "showbread," was a perpetual offering before the Lord, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. It symbolizes God's eternal covenant with His people and His provision for their needs. The bread, coupled with the frankincense, signifies a holistic offering of sustenance and prayer, embodying the relationship between God and His people.

an offering made by fire
The phrase "offering made by fire" translates the Hebrew "אִשֶּׁה" (isheh), which refers to sacrifices consumed by fire on the altar. Fire in biblical terms often symbolizes God's presence and purification. This offering, therefore, represents a means of sanctification and communion with God, emphasizing the transformative power of divine interaction.

to the LORD
The use of "LORD" in all capitals signifies the Hebrew name "יהוה" (YHWH), the covenant name of God. This highlights the personal and relational aspect of the offering, directed specifically to the God of Israel. It underscores the exclusivity of worship and the unique relationship between YHWH and His chosen people, calling for devotion and reverence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws and instructions from God on Mount Sinai.

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

3. Tabernacle
The sacred place where the Israelites worshiped God, and where the bread of the Presence was placed.

4. Frankincense
A valuable resin used in worship, symbolizing prayer and purity, placed near the bread as a memorial offering.

5. Bread of the Presence
Twelve loaves representing the twelve tribes of Israel, placed on the table in the Holy Place as a continual offering before God.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Frankincense
Frankincense represents purity and prayer. In our lives, we should strive for purity and maintain a constant prayer life, offering our lives as a fragrant offering to God.

Memorial Offering
The memorial portion signifies remembrance. We are called to remember God's faithfulness and provision in our lives, just as the Israelites remembered through their offerings.

Continual Worship
The bread of the Presence was a continual offering. Our worship and dedication to God should be constant, not just reserved for specific times or places.

Covenant Relationship
The bread and frankincense symbolize the covenant relationship between God and His people. We are reminded of our covenant through Christ and the importance of living in obedience and faithfulness.

Community Representation
The twelve loaves represented the twelve tribes. In the body of Christ, we are called to unity and to represent our community in our worship and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of frankincense in Leviticus 24:7 enhance our understanding of prayer and worship in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the concept of a "memorial offering" into our spiritual practices today?

3. How does the continual presence of the bread in the tabernacle challenge us to maintain a consistent relationship with God?

4. What parallels can we draw between the covenant relationship symbolized by the bread and frankincense and our relationship with Christ?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, ensure that we are representing our faith collectively, similar to the twelve loaves representing the twelve tribes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:30
This verse describes the command to place the bread of the Presence on the table before God continually, establishing the practice that Leviticus 24:7 elaborates on.

Hebrews 9:2
This New Testament passage references the setup of the tabernacle, including the table and the bread of the Presence, connecting the Old Testament practices to the new covenant.

Revelation 8:3-4
These verses describe the prayers of the saints rising like incense before God, drawing a parallel to the use of frankincense in Leviticus 24:7.