Gold Dish

In biblical times, gold was a symbol of wealth, purity, and divine glory. The use of gold dishes in religious contexts underscores the preciousness and sanctity of the items they contained or the rituals they were part of. Gold dishes are mentioned in the context of the Tabernacle and the Temple, where they were used for sacred purposes.

In the construction of the Tabernacle, gold was extensively used, as described in the Book of Exodus. The Israelites were instructed to bring offerings of gold, among other materials, for the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings (Exodus 25:3). Gold dishes, along with other gold items, were part of the sacred utensils used in the service of the Tabernacle. These items were crafted with great skill and care, reflecting the holiness of the worship they facilitated.

The use of gold dishes is also noted in the context of the Temple built by Solomon. In 1 Kings 7:48-50, the Bible describes the gold furnishings of the Temple, including the altar of gold and the table of gold for the Bread of the Presence, along with the lampstands and other utensils. The use of gold in these items highlights the splendor and majesty of the Temple, which was a dwelling place for the presence of God among His people.

Incense

Incense holds significant symbolic and ritual importance in the Bible, often representing prayer, worship, and the presence of God. The use of incense is closely associated with the Tabernacle and the Temple, where it played a central role in the worship practices of the Israelites.

In the Tabernacle, the altar of incense was placed before the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Exodus 30:1-10). The incense burned on this altar was a special blend, as prescribed by God, and was considered holy. The burning of incense was a daily ritual, performed by the priests as a symbol of the prayers of the people ascending to God. In Psalm 141:2, David expresses this symbolism: "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering."

The Book of Revelation also highlights the symbolic role of incense in the heavenly realm. In Revelation 5:8, the twenty-four elders are described as holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. This imagery reinforces the connection between incense and prayer, illustrating how the prayers of believers are precious and pleasing to God.

Incense was also used in the consecration of priests and the purification of sacred spaces. In Leviticus 16:12-13, during the Day of Atonement, the high priest was instructed to take a censer full of burning coals from the altar and two handfuls of finely ground fragrant incense, bringing them inside the veil to create a cloud of incense over the mercy seat.

The use of incense in biblical worship underscores the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity. It serves as a reminder of the holiness required in worship and the sweet aroma of a life devoted to God.