Exodus 30:1-10

1 [The LORD continued,] "Build an altar out of acacia wood for burning incense.

2 Make it 18 inches square and 36 inches high. The horns and altar must be made out of one piece [of wood].

3 Cover all of it with pure gold--the top, the sides, and the horns. Put a gold molding around it.

4 Make two gold rings, and put them below the molding on opposite sides to hold the poles for carrying it.

5 Make the poles out of acacia wood, and cover them with gold.

6 Put the altar in front of the canopy which [hangs] over the ark containing the words of my promise. I will meet with you there in front of the throne of mercy that is on the ark.

7 "Aaron must burn sweet-smelling incense on this altar every morning when he takes care of the lamps.

8 Also, when Aaron lights the lamps at dusk, he must burn incense. For generations to come an incense offering must burn constantly in the LORD's presence.

9 "Never burn any unauthorized incense on this altar or any burnt offerings or grain offerings. Never pour a wine offering on it.

10 Once a year Aaron must make peace with the LORD by putting blood on its horns. Once a year--for generations to come--blood from the offering must be placed on the altar to make peace with the LORD. It is most holy to the LORD."

Exodus 30:1-10 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.