The prohibition against unauthorized incense use is a significant aspect of the Old Testament law, reflecting the sanctity and order of worship prescribed by God for the Israelites. This prohibition is primarily rooted in the instructions given to Moses regarding the construction and use of the Tabernacle, where specific rituals and offerings were to be conducted in a manner that honored God's holiness.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural basis for this prohibition is found in the Book of Exodus. God provided Moses with detailed instructions on how to construct the Tabernacle and conduct worship within it. Among these instructions was the formulation of a sacred incense, which was to be used exclusively for worship purposes. Exodus 30:34-38 states:

"Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha, and galbanum—and pure frankincense, all in equal measures, and make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy. You are to grind some of it into fine powder and place it in front of the Ark of the Covenant in the Tent of Meeting, where I will meet with you. It shall be most holy to you. You must not make any incense with this formula for yourselves; you are to 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 underscores the exclusivity and sanctity of the incense, emphasizing that it was not to be replicated for personal use. The incense was a symbol of the prayers of the people ascending to God, and its misuse was considered a grave offense.

Historical Context and Incidents

The seriousness of this prohibition is further illustrated in the narrative of Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, in Leviticus 10:1-2 :

"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 highlights the severe consequences of disregarding God's commands regarding worship. Nadab and Abihu's offering of "unauthorized fire" was a direct violation of the divine order, resulting in their immediate death. This event served as a sobering reminder to the Israelites of the importance of adhering to God's instructions.

Theological Significance

The prohibition against unauthorized incense use reflects broader theological themes within the Old Testament, including the holiness of God, the importance of obedience, and the need for reverence in worship. The specific formula and use of the incense were not arbitrary; they were divinely ordained to maintain the sanctity of the worship space and the community's relationship with God.

The incense also symbolized the prayers and intercessions of the people, 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 carried into the New Testament, where the prayers of the saints are likened to incense in Revelation 5:8 .

Implications for Worship

The prohibition against unauthorized incense use serves as a reminder of the need for order and reverence in worship. It underscores the principle that worship is not a matter of personal preference but must align with God's revealed will. This principle continues to inform Christian worship practices, emphasizing the importance of approaching God with humility and obedience.