The Golden Altar of Incense, also known simply as the Altar of Incense, holds significant importance in the worship practices of ancient Israel as described in the Old Testament. It was a key component of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, serving as a symbol of the prayers of the people ascending to God.

Biblical Description and Construction

The instructions for the construction of the Golden Altar of Incense are detailed in Exodus 30:1-10. The altar was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold, measuring a cubit in length and width, and two cubits in height. It had horns on its four corners, also covered in gold, and a gold molding around its top. Rings of gold were attached to its sides to hold poles for carrying, which were also made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold.

Function and Ritual Use

Positioned in the Holy Place, just before the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, the altar was used exclusively for burning incense. Aaron, the high priest, was instructed to burn fragrant incense on it every morning and evening as part of the daily rituals (Exodus 30:7-8). This perpetual incense offering was a vital aspect of the priestly duties, symbolizing the continuous prayers and intercession of the people before God.

The incense used was a specific blend, as commanded by God, and was considered holy. The Israelites were forbidden from using this particular formula for personal use, emphasizing its sacred nature (Exodus 30:34-38).

Atonement and Purification

Once a year, on the Day of Atonement, the high priest was to make atonement on the horns of the altar with the blood of the sin offering (Exodus 30:10). This act of purification underscored the altar's role in the spiritual life of Israel, connecting the concepts of prayer, intercession, and atonement.

Symbolism and Theological Significance

The Golden Altar of Incense is rich in symbolism. The rising smoke of the incense represents the prayers of the faithful ascending to God, as seen in Psalm 141:2, "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering." This imagery is echoed in the New Testament, where the prayers of the saints are likened to incense in Revelation 5:8 and 8:3-4.

The altar's placement before the veil signifies the closeness of prayer to the presence of God, yet also the separation that existed before the coming of Christ. In the New Testament, the tearing of the veil at Christ's crucifixion (Matthew 27:51) symbolizes the new access believers have to God through Jesus, our High Priest, who intercedes on our behalf (Hebrews 4:14-16).

Historical and Cultural Context

In the broader cultural context of the ancient Near East, incense was commonly used in religious rituals. However, the specific instructions and restrictions given to Israel highlight the distinctiveness of their worship and the holiness of their God. The Golden Altar of Incense, therefore, not only served a liturgical function but also reinforced the unique covenant relationship between God and His people.

Conclusion

The Golden Altar of Incense remains a profound symbol of prayer and intercession in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Its presence in the Tabernacle and Temple underscores the importance of approaching God with reverence and the assurance of His attentive presence to the prayers of His people.