Frankincense is one of the most well-known and revered substances mentioned in the Bible. It holds significant spiritual, symbolic, and historical meaning in both the Old and New Testaments. Frankincense, a resin derived from the Boswellia tree, was highly valued in ancient times for its fragrant aroma and its use in various religious rituals, particularly in the worship of God. This topic explores the role of frankincense in the Bible, its symbolism, and its use in ancient religious practices.
What is Frankincense?
Frankincense is a resin that comes from the sap of the Boswellia tree, which grows in regions of the Arabian Peninsula, Northeast Africa, and parts of India. The resin is harvested by making incisions in the bark of the tree, allowing the sap to ooze out and harden into tear-shaped droplets. These droplets are then collected and used as incense or for medicinal purposes.
In ancient times, frankincense was prized not only for its fragrant aroma but also for its medicinal properties and its use in religious ceremonies. Its presence in the Bible reflects its significance in the cultural and religious practices of the time.
Frankincense in the Old Testament
Frankincense is mentioned several times in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of offerings and worship. It was used in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple in Jerusalem as part of the prescribed rituals of the Israelite faith.
Frankincense as Part of the Incense Offering
In the book of Exodus, God commands the Israelites to prepare a special incense for use in the Tabernacle. This incense was to be burned on the altar of incense, a special altar located in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle. The incense was made from a combination of frankincense and other spices, and it was a key part of the worship practices.
‘Take fragrant spices – gum resin, onycha, and galbanum – and pure frankincense, all in equal amounts. Make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer; it is to be salted and pure and sacred.’ (Exodus 30:34, NIV)
This special incense, which included frankincense, was to be burned before the Lord as an offering, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God. It was considered a pleasing aroma to God and was a key part of the ritual worship that helped the Israelites maintain their relationship with Him.
Frankincense in Sacrifices
In addition to its use in incense offerings, frankincense was also used in other forms of worship. In Leviticus, we see that frankincense was included in grain offerings presented to God.
‘The priest shall burn the memorial portion of the offering on the altar as a food offering, an aroma pleasing to the Lord.’ (Leviticus 2:2, NIV)
In this context, frankincense symbolized the people’s dedication to God and their willingness to give their best offerings to Him. The aroma of the burning frankincense was viewed as a symbol of God’s acceptance of the offerings.
Frankincense in the New Testament
Frankincense also plays a prominent role in the New Testament, particularly in the story of the birth of Jesus Christ. The arrival of the wise men (Magi) from the East to present gifts to the newborn king is a key moment in the Nativity story.
The Gifts of the Magi
One of the most well-known mentions of frankincense in the Bible comes from the Gospel of Matthew. When the wise men visit the baby Jesus, they bring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were symbolic and significant, each representing a different aspect of who Jesus was and would become.
‘On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.’ (Matthew 2:11, NIV)
Frankincense, in this context, was not just a valuable commodity but also held deep symbolic meaning. It was a gift fit for a king, as it was used in religious rituals to honor God. By presenting frankincense to Jesus, the wise men acknowledged His divinity and His role as the Son of God.
Symbolism of Frankincense in the Bible
Frankincense is more than just a physical substance in the Bible; it also carries rich symbolic meaning, particularly in relation to worship, prayer, and sacrifice.
Symbol of Prayer and Worship
Throughout the Bible, incense is often used as a symbol of prayer and worship. The rising smoke of incense was seen as an offering to God, representing the prayers of the faithful. In the book of Revelation, the imagery of incense is used to describe the prayers of the saints in heaven.
‘Another angel who had a golden censer came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all God’s people, on the golden altar in front of the throne.’ (Revelation 8:3, NIV)
In this passage, the incense is closely tied to the prayers of the saints, symbolizing how God hears the prayers of His people. The act of burning incense in the Old Testament Tabernacle was seen as an act of reverence and worship, elevating the people’s prayers to God.
Symbol of Sacrifice
Frankincense, when offered alongside sacrifices, symbolized the dedication and sacrifice of the people. The burning of incense was not just a ritual; it represented a giving of oneself to God. In the context of the New Testament, the offering of frankincense to Jesus by the wise men signifies the recognition of Jesus as a divine being worthy of worship and sacrifice. It foreshadows His role as the ultimate sacrifice for humanity’s sins.
The Use of Frankincense in Modern Christianity
Today, frankincense is still used in many Christian traditions, particularly in liturgical settings. It is often burned during church services, especially in Roman Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican traditions. The use of frankincense in these services continues the ancient symbolism of worship and prayer. The smoke rising from the incense is a visible representation of the prayers of the congregation ascending to God.
In some Christian traditions, frankincense is also used in special religious rituals, such as the blessing of holy objects or the consecration of altars. It is viewed as a symbol of the sanctity and holiness of these actions.
Frankincense in Christian Spirituality
In addition to its use in church services, frankincense can also be a tool for personal meditation and spiritual reflection. The rich aroma of frankincense is often used in prayer and devotion to help individuals focus their minds on the presence of God. Many Christians believe that the fragrance of frankincense can serve as a reminder of God’s holiness and the importance of worshiping Him in spirit and truth.
Frankincense holds deep historical, spiritual, and symbolic significance in the Bible. From its use in the ancient Israelite rituals to its role in the Nativity story, frankincense is a symbol of worship, prayer, and sacrifice. It serves as a reminder of God’s holiness, the importance of offering ourselves to Him, and the need for reverent worship. As a gift brought to Jesus by the wise men, frankincense also points to His divinity and His role as the Savior. Today, it continues to be used in Christian worship, reminding believers of its rich biblical meaning and connection to God’s presence.
