Exodus 30: The Altar of Incense and Anointing Oil

Key Verse: Exodus 30:6"And you shall put it in front of the veil that is above the ark of the testimony, in front of the mercy seat that is above the testimony, where I will meet with you."

God is establishing a place of worship and prayer.

The Tabernacle is nearly complete, but now God gives instructions for the Altar of Incense, the Anointing Oil, and the Priestly Cleansing. These elements are not just symbolic—they are essential for approaching God.

The Altar of Incense: A Fragrant Offering

The Altar of Incense was placed right outside the Most Holy Place, in front of the veil.

Every morning and evening, Aaron would burn pure incense on it, a continual offering before the Lord.

Why incense? Because its smoke rose up, representing the prayers of God’s people.

"Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice!" (Psalm 141:2)

The altar stood in front of the mercy seat, where God’s presence dwelled. Prayer is what brings us near to God.

The Ransom Money: Atonement for the People

God commands that each person must give a half-shekel offering as a ransom for their lives.

"Everyone who is numbered in the census shall give this: half a shekel according to the shekel of the sanctuary." (Exodus 30:13)

This offering was a reminder that their lives belonged to God. It was not about wealth—the rich and poor gave the same amount. Everyone needed atonement equally.

The Bronze Basin: Cleansing Before Service

A bronze basin was placed between the altar and the Tabernacle, filled with water. Before entering to serve, the priests had to wash their hands and feet.

"They shall wash their hands and their feet, so that they may not die." (Exodus 30:21)

Approaching God required purity and cleansing.

The Holy Anointing Oil and Incense

God gives specific recipes for the anointing oil and the incense. These mixtures were sacred—they were not to be used for anything else.

The oil was poured over the priests, the altar, and the furnishings, setting them apart as holy.

The incense was never to be copied or used for personal use.

God was making it clear: His presence is not common. It is set apart.

Jesus: Our Intercessor and Atonement

The Altar of Incense – Jesus intercedes for us constantly, just as the incense burned continually. (Hebrews 7:25)
The Ransom Money – Jesus paid the ultimate ransom for our souls. (Mark 10:45)
The Washing Basin – Jesus washes us clean, making us worthy to stand before God. (Ephesians 5:26)
The Anointing Oil – Through Christ, we are anointed with the Holy Spirit. (1 John 2:20)

A Lesson for Us

Are we bringing our prayers before God daily, like incense?
Do we remember that we were ransomed by Christ?
Are we living in holiness, cleansed and anointed for His purpose?

God calls us not just to serve Him—but to be set apart for Him.

Are we living as people who truly belong to Him?