The prohibition against unauthorized incense is a significant aspect of the Old Testament's sacrificial and worship system, underscoring the importance of obedience and reverence in approaching God. This prohibition is primarily rooted in the instructions given to the Israelites regarding the proper conduct of worship and the sanctity of the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural basis for the prohibition against unauthorized incense is found in the Book of Exodus. God provided Moses with specific instructions concerning the composition and use of incense in the Tabernacle. Exodus 30:34-38 states:

"Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha, and galbanum—and pure frankincense, in equal measures, and make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy. Grind some of it into fine powder and place it in front of the Testimony in the Tent of Meeting, where I will meet with you. It shall be most holy to you. You are never to use this formula to make incense for yourselves; you shall regard it as holy to the LORD. Anyone who makes something like it to enjoy its fragrance shall be cut off from his people.'"

This passage highlights the exclusivity and sanctity of the incense used in worship, emphasizing that it was not to be replicated for personal use or enjoyment. The incense was a symbol of the prayers of the people ascending to God, and its misuse was considered a grave offense.

Historical Instances

A notable instance of the violation of this prohibition is found in the account of Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron. In Leviticus 10:1-2 , it is recorded:

"Now Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu took their censers, put fire in them, and added incense; and they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to His command. So fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died before the LORD."

This incident serves as a stark warning about the consequences of disregarding God's commands regarding worship. Nadab and Abihu's offering of "unauthorized fire" was a direct violation of the divine instructions, resulting in their immediate death. This event underscores the seriousness with which God views the sanctity of worship and the necessity of adhering to His prescribed methods.

Theological Significance

The prohibition against unauthorized incense reflects broader theological themes within the Old Testament, particularly the holiness of God and the necessity of approaching Him with reverence and obedience. The specific instructions regarding incense, like other aspects of the sacrificial system, were designed to teach the Israelites about the nature of God and the proper way to worship Him.

The use of incense in the Tabernacle and Temple was symbolic of the prayers and intercessions of the people. Psalm 141:2 captures this imagery: "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering." The incense was a tangible representation of the spiritual reality of communion with God, and its misuse was tantamount to a distortion of that relationship.

New Testament Perspective

While the New Testament does not explicitly address the issue of unauthorized incense, the principles of reverence and obedience in worship continue to be emphasized. The book of Hebrews, for example, speaks to the fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrificial system in Christ, who is the ultimate High Priest and mediator. Hebrews 9:11-12 states:

"But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that have come, He went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made by hands, that is, not of this creation. He did not enter by the blood of goats and calves, but He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, thus securing eternal redemption."

In this context, the New Testament underscores the importance of approaching God through the means He has provided—namely, through Jesus Christ. The reverence and obedience required in the Old Testament find their ultimate expression in the person and work of Christ, who fulfills the law and the prophets.

Conclusion

The prohibition against unauthorized incense serves as a powerful reminder of the holiness of God and the importance of approaching Him with the reverence and obedience He requires. Through the specific instructions given to the Israelites, God communicated the seriousness of worship and the necessity of adhering to His commands. This theme continues into the New Testament, where the fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Christ calls believers to approach God through the means He has provided.