Exodus 30:1-7

The Incense Altar

1 "You are to make an altar for the burning of incense; make it of acacia wood.
2 It must be square, 18 inches long and 18 inches wide;[a] it must be 36 inches high.[b] Its horns must be of one piece.[c]
3 Overlay its top, all around its sides, and its horns with pure gold; make a gold molding all around it.
4 Make two gold rings for it under the molding on two of its sides; put these on opposite sides of it to be holders for the poles to carry it with.
5 Make the poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold.
6 "You are to place the altar in front of the veil by the ark of the testimony-in front of the mercy seat that is over the testimony-where I will meet with you.
7 Aaron must burn fragrant incense on it; he must burn it every morning when he tends the lamps.

Exodus 30:1-7 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO EXODUS 30

This chapter treats of the altar of incense, its form and use, Ex 30:1-10 of the ransom of the Israelites, with the half shekel when numbered, Ex 30:11-16 of the laver for the priests to wash their hands and feet at before service, Ex 30:17-21 of the anointing oil, the ingredients of it, and what was to be done with it, Ex 30:22-33, and of the perfume, the composition and use of it, Ex 30:34-38.

Footnotes 3

  • [a]. Lit one cubit its length and one cubit its width
  • [b]. Lit wide; and two cubits its height
  • [c]. Lit piece with it
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