In the biblical narrative, incense holds profound symbolic significance, representing prayer, worship, and the divine presence. Its use is deeply rooted in the religious practices of ancient Israel and carries forward into the New Testament, where it continues to symbolize the prayers of the saints.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, incense is prominently featured in the worship practices prescribed by God to the Israelites. The instructions for the use of incense are detailed in the book of Exodus, where God commands Moses to make an altar of incense for the Tabernacle (Exodus 30:1-10). The incense was to be burned every morning and evening, symbolizing the continual prayers and intercession of the people before God. The specific composition of the incense was sacred, and its use was restricted to worship, underscoring its holiness (Exodus 30:34-38).

The burning of incense is also associated with the presence of God. In Leviticus 16:12-13, the high priest is instructed to take a censer full of burning coals from the altar and two handfuls of finely ground fragrant incense to bring inside the veil. The cloud of incense would cover the mercy seat, symbolizing the divine presence and the protection it afforded the high priest as he entered the Holy of Holies.

Symbolism in Worship and Prayer

Incense serves as a powerful symbol of prayer in the Psalms. Psalm 141:2 states, "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering." Here, the rising smoke of the incense is likened to the prayers of the faithful ascending to God, suggesting a connection between the physical act of burning incense and the spiritual act of prayer.

New Testament Revelation

The symbolism of incense continues into the New Testament, particularly in the book of Revelation. In Revelation 5:8, the twenty-four elders fall before the Lamb, each holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, "which are the prayers of the saints." This imagery reinforces the idea that incense represents the prayers of believers, now offered in the heavenly realm.

Further, in Revelation 8:3-4, an angel stands at the altar with a golden censer, and much incense is given to him to offer with the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar before the throne. The smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of the saints, ascends before God. This passage highlights the intercessory role of incense, symbolizing the mediation of Christ and the acceptance of believers' prayers by God.

Theological Implications

The use of incense in Scripture underscores the importance of prayer and worship in the life of the believer. It serves as a reminder of the holiness required in approaching God and the sweet aroma that sincere worship and prayer bring to Him. The imagery of incense also points to the mediating work of Christ, who, as our High Priest, presents our prayers before the Father.

In summary, incense in the Bible is a rich symbol of prayer, divine presence, and the holiness of worship. Its use in both the Old and New Testaments reflects the continuity of God's desire for His people to approach Him with reverence and devotion, assured of His presence and attentive ear.