Exodus 30:1-11

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."

11 Then the LORD said to Moses,

Exodus 30:1-11 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.