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Book of Exodus - Chapter 30 - Verse 7

30:7
And Aaron shall burn thereon sweet incense every morning: when he dresseth the lamps, he shall burn incense upon it.

Meaning

When Aaron burns sweet incense every morning upon the golden altar, it symbolizes the continuous offering of prayers and worship to God. The act of burning incense is a form of worship in many religions, representing the rising of prayers to heaven and the pleasing aroma of the offerings to God. In this context, burning incense is a way for Aaron to show reverence and devotion to God as he carries out his duties in the tabernacle. Additionally, the burning of incense when dressing the lamps serves as a reminder of the importance of offering praise and worship to God consistently, even in the midst of other tasks and responsibilities. By following this ritual, Aaron is demonstrating his commitment to maintaining a close relationship with God and ensuring that the tabernacle is a place of holiness and worship. Overall, the verse emphasizes the significance of daily acts of worship and the importance of seeking God's presence in all aspects of life.

Theological Overview

In this verse from Exodus 30:7, the act of burning sweet incense every morning by the high priest Aaron holds significance in terms of early Jewish theology. The burning of incense was seen as a way to symbolize the prayers of God’s people rising up to Him. It serves as a reminder of the importance of consistent communication with God through prayer. Furthermore, the act of burning incense upon the golden altar while dressing the lamps also highlights the idea of spiritual illumination. Just as the lamps were tended to daily to ensure they stayed lit, so too should believers tend to their relationship with God, keeping it alive and vibrant through daily acts of worship and prayer. The intricate details of this ritual in the Old Testament can also be seen as pointing towards the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who serves as our eternal High Priest and who intercedes on our behalf before God. The burning of incense can then be understood as a foreshadowing of the perfect sacrifice and atonement that Jesus would provide for all believers.

American Standard Version

And Aaron shall burn thereon incense of sweet spices: every morning, when he dresseth the lamps, he shall burn it.
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