Consider the Spices and Fragrances Exodus ch.30 begins with instructions for constructing the altar of incense. Burning coals from the brazen altar of sacrifice were placed here and then chosen spices were sprinkled on the flames producing a fragrant aroma which permeated through-out the tabernacle. The fragrance was the odour of God and must have awakened desire for His companionship – He was so close, just beyond the vail. Thus, we see that these spices, were an integral part of the ambiance of the tabernacle. In ch.30 we are in the priest’s pharmacy and we are fascinated by the various labels on the jars of spices. Three times Moses refers to “the art of the apothecary” (Exod.30:25, 35; 37:29). This skill was gained in Egypt as were all their other skills and they are now employed in the service of the tabernacle. Their skills are employed to produce holy anointing oil for the priests, perfume, and incense for the altar. This chapter is a unique and fascinating chapter in the Bible and important if you reflect on the phenomenal significance of spices in the ancient world and the spice routes which trafficked them. We read about the perfume, “the sweet incense” which was tempered together, pure, and holy, the perfume of God - the fragrance of His nature. The incense employed in the service of the tabernacle was compounded of the perfumes: stacte, onycha, galbanum and pure frankincense. All incense which was not made of these ingredients was forbidden to be offered (Ex.30:9). In 30:36, Moses writes: “And you shall beat some of it very small and put of it before the testimony in the tabernacle of the congregation where I will meet with you: it shall be unto you most holy.” New Life Radio – Talk No 19
18 Derrick Harrison
17/02/2021
