Book of Leviticus - Chapter 16 - Verse 13

Within this verse from the book of Exodus, we are given instructions on how the incense is to be used in the tabernacle. The High Priest was to put incense on the fire before the Lord so that the cloud of incense would cover the mercy seat. The mercy seat was a sacred item which represented the presence of God among His people. By covering it with incense, it symbolized the prayers and petitions of the people rising up to God. The incense was seen as a way to purify and make holy the space in which God dwelled. It was also believed that the incense helped to shield the High Priest from the direct presence of God, as it was believed that encountering God's holiness would result in death. Therefore, by following this ritual, the High Priest could perform his duties without risking his life. This verse serves as a reminder of the reverence and respect that was required when approaching the divine presence of God.

Within the context of this verse, the act of putting incense on the fire before the Lord holds theological significance. The burning of incense was a symbol of prayers ascending to God, as the smoke rose up like a sweet aroma. The cloud of incense covering the mercy seat symbolized the presence of God, as the mercy seat was where God's presence dwelled. This act was a way for the High Priest to commune with God and seek His favor. It was crucial for the High Priest to follow these precise instructions, as failure to do so could result in death, emphasizing the holiness and seriousness of approaching God in this manner. Through this ritual, the Israelites were reminded of the importance of honoring and respecting the presence of God, as well as the need for mediation between a holy God and sinful humanity. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the reverence and awe that should accompany our prayers and worship, recognizing the holiness of God and the need for divine mercy and forgiveness.