Exodus 30:9

KJV

Ye shall offer no strange incense thereon, nor burnt sacrifice, nor meat offering; neither shall ye pour drink offering thereon.

KJV (with Strong's)

Ye shall offer {H5927} no strange {H2114} incense {H7004} thereon, nor burnt sacrifice {H5930}, nor meat offering {H4503}; neither shall ye pour {H5258} drink offering {H5262} thereon.

Complete Jewish Bible

You are not to offer unauthorized incense on it, or a burnt offering or a grain offering; and you are not to pour a drink offering on it.

Berean Standard Bible

On this altar you must not offer unauthorized incense or a burnt offering or grain offering; nor are you to pour a drink offering on it.

American Standard Version

Ye shall offer no strange incense thereon, nor burnt-offering, nor meal-offering; and ye shall pour no drink-offering thereon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 30:9 delivers a precise divine prohibition concerning the Altar of Incense within the Tabernacle, strictly forbidding the offering of "strange incense" or any other type of sacrifice—burnt offerings, grain offerings, or drink offerings—on this specific altar. This command underscores God's meticulous nature regarding the sanctity of worship, emphasizing that His presence demands worship conducted exclusively according to His divinely ordained parameters, without human innovation or deviation. It highlights the distinct purpose of each sacred element within the Tabernacle and the absolute necessity of adhering to God's revealed will in all acts of devotion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of God's detailed instructions to Moses for the construction and operation of the Tabernacle, specifically following the design specifications for the Altar of Incense in [Exodus 30:1-8](/exodus/30-1-8 "Exodus 30:1-8 - Instructions for the Altar of Incense"). The preceding verses describe its dimensions, materials, and placement within the Holy Place, just before the veil separating it from the Most Holy Place. The immediate context establishes the altar's singular purpose: the offering of a specific, divinely prescribed incense morning and evening, symbolizing the prayers of the saints ascending to God. This prohibition, therefore, serves as a critical boundary marker, ensuring the altar's function remains pure and distinct from the sacrificial rituals performed on the Brazen Altar in the outer courtyard, reinforcing the precise order of Tabernacle worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern cultures, various forms of worship, including diverse types of incense and sacrifices, were common, often characterized by syncretism and human ingenuity. However, the Israelite Tabernacle system, revealed by Yahweh, stood in stark contrast to these pagan practices by demanding absolute adherence to divine revelation. The distinction between the [Altar of Incense](/exodus/30 "Exodus 30 - The Altar of Incense and other priestly instructions") and the [Altar of Burnt Offering](/exodus/27 "Exodus 27 - The Altar of Burnt Offering") was crucial. The Brazen Altar, located in the Tabernacle courtyard, was for blood sacrifices that atoned for sin, as detailed in [Leviticus 1-7](/leviticus/1-7 "Leviticus 1-7 - Laws of Offerings"). The Altar of Incense, however, was in the Holy Place and was exclusively for the burning of the specially compounded holy incense (cf. [Exodus 30:34-38](/exodus/30-34-38 "Exodus 30:34-38 - The Holy Anointing Oil and Incense")). This strict separation prevented syncretism and underscored God's unique holiness, demonstrating that He alone defines the terms of acceptable worship and approach.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 30:9 significantly contributes to several major theological and narrative themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of **God's Holiness and Transcendence**, emphasizing that Yahweh is utterly distinct from all other deities and demands a unique, pure approach. This leads directly to the theme of **Divine Prescription in Worship**, where God meticulously dictates every aspect of how He is to be worshipped, leaving no room for human innovation or adaptation. The prohibition also highlights the theme of **Order and Distinction in Sacred Space and Ritual**, ensuring that each element of the Tabernacle and its associated rituals serves a specific, divinely appointed purpose, preventing confusion or defilement. This meticulousness is a recurring motif, seen in the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's construction and the priesthood's duties, reinforcing the principle that acceptable worship is always on God's terms.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Strange (Hebrew, _zûwr'_):** From H2114, a primitive root meaning "to turn aside," "to be a foreigner," "strange," or "profane." In this sacred context, "strange incense" signifies anything that is not consecrated, appointed, or permitted by God for a specific holy purpose. It is not merely "different" but "forbidden," "unauthorized," or "unlawful," highlighting a severe breach of divine protocol and an act of defilement. This term emphasizes the absolute necessity of divine sanction for all elements of worship, particularly in the presence of a holy God.
* **Incense (Hebrew, _qᵉṭôreth'_):** From H7004, referring to a "fumigation" or "sweet incense/perfume." This word specifically denotes the aromatic substance burned in worship. In the Tabernacle, there was a particular, divinely prescribed blend of spices for the holy incense (cf. [Exodus 30:34-38](/exodus/30-34-38 "Exodus 30:34-38 - The Sacred Incense Formula")). The prohibition of "strange incense" thus means not only incense from an unauthorized source but also incense made with an unauthorized formula, offered at an unauthorized time, or by unauthorized persons. It underscores the precision God demanded in the composition and offering of this symbolic prayer.
* **Drink offering (Hebrew, _neçek'_):** From H5262, meaning "a libation" or "a cast idol." In the context of Tabernacle worship, it refers to a liquid offering, typically wine, poured out as an accompaniment to other sacrifices, symbolizing joy, praise, or a covenant commitment. The prohibition of a "drink offering" on the Altar of Incense explicitly limits the altar's function, preventing the mixing of sacrificial types and reinforcing the distinct sacred purpose of each altar and offering within the Tabernacle system.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Ye shall offer no strange incense thereon":** This is the primary prohibition. "Strange incense" refers to any incense not specifically prescribed by God for the Altar of Incense, whether in its composition, source, or manner of offering. This clause underscores God's demand for precise obedience in worship, rejecting human innovation, foreign practices, or any deviation from the divinely established protocol. It highlights the exclusive nature of the holy incense for this altar.
* **"nor burnt sacrifice":** Burnt offerings (Hebrew, `ʻôlâh`, H5930) were entirely consumed by fire on the Brazen Altar in the outer courtyard, symbolizing complete dedication and atonement for sin. Their placement on the Altar of Incense would violate the distinct purpose and holiness of each altar, confusing the order of worship, defiling the sacred space, and undermining the theological significance of blood atonement.
* **"nor meat offering":** The "meat offering" (Hebrew, `minchâh`, H4503), more accurately translated as "grain offering" or "meal offering," typically consisted of flour, oil, and frankincense, offered on the Brazen Altar as an act of devotion and thanksgiving. Like the burnt sacrifice, its offering on the Altar of Incense would be a transgression of divine command, blurring the lines between different types of offerings and their designated altars, thereby corrupting the divinely ordained system.
* **"neither shall ye pour drink offering thereon":** Drink offerings (Hebrew, `neçek`, H5262), usually of wine (Hebrew, `nâçak`, H5258, "to pour out"), were typically poured out on the Brazen Altar as an accompaniment to other sacrifices, symbolizing joy and praise. Their prohibition on the Altar of Incense further reinforces the unique and exclusive function of this altar for the burning of holy incense alone, maintaining the purity and distinctiveness of each aspect of Tabernacle worship and preventing the conflation of different sacrificial rites.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Exodus 30:9 is **Prohibition**, expressed through a series of emphatic negative commands ("no strange incense," "nor burnt sacrifice," "nor meat offering," "neither shall ye pour drink offering"). This cumulative use of negation highlights the absolute nature of God's boundaries for worship, leaving no room for ambiguity, human discretion, or syncretism. The verse also employs **Juxtaposition** by implicitly contrasting the divinely sanctioned, specific use of the Altar of Incense (for holy incense only) with the explicitly forbidden, "strange" practices and other types of offerings designated for different altars. This contrast underscores the sanctity of the altar and the meticulousness required in approaching God. Furthermore, the detailed listing of forbidden offerings serves as **Enumeration**, reinforcing the comprehensive scope of the prohibition and ensuring that no unauthorized act of worship is overlooked or excused, thereby emphasizing the divine demand for precise and complete obedience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 30:9 profoundly emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty in defining the terms of worship. It reveals that true worship is not a matter of human preference, sentiment, or innovation but of strict adherence to divine revelation. The meticulous commands concerning the Tabernacle and its rituals underscore the holiness of God and the reverence required in His presence. Any deviation, even seemingly minor, was considered "strange" or "unauthorized," signifying a profound disrespect for God's authority and a defilement of His sacred space. This principle of precise obedience in worship is a foundational theme throughout the Old Testament, illustrating that God desires to be approached on His terms, not ours, and that His character demands purity and order in all interactions with humanity.
* [Leviticus 10:1-2](/leviticus/10-1-2 "Leviticus 10:1-2 - Nadab and Abihu's Strange Fire")
* [Numbers 16:1-40](/numbers/16-1-40 "Numbers 16 - Korah's Rebellion and Unauthorized Offerings")
* [Deuteronomy 12:30-32](/deuteronomy/12-30-32 "Deuteronomy 12:30-32 - Warning Against Adopting Pagan Practices")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 30:9, though rooted in ancient Tabernacle rituals, offers enduring spiritual principles for believers today. It calls us to a profound reverence for God's holiness and a commitment to worship Him according to His revealed will. While the outward forms of worship have changed—we no longer offer physical sacrifices on altars—the underlying principle of intentional, God-honoring worship remains paramount. This verse challenges us to examine our worship practices, both individually and corporately, ensuring they are shaped by Scripture and a genuine desire to honor God, rather than by personal preferences, cultural trends, or superficial expressions. It reminds us that God is not indifferent to how we approach Him; He desires sincerity, purity, and obedience flowing from a heart transformed by Christ, recognizing that our entire lives are to be a spiritual offering, lived in humble submission to His perfect will. Our worship, whether in song, prayer, service, or daily conduct, must be "acceptable to God" ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifice")) and reflect His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might we, in contemporary worship, be tempted to offer "strange incense" or unauthorized worship to God, perhaps through insincerity, self-focus, or deviation from biblical truth?**
* **How does understanding God's strictness in Exodus 30:9 inform our approach to personal devotion and corporate worship today, particularly regarding preparation and reverence?**
* **What does it mean to worship God "in spirit and in truth" ([John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")) in light of the Old Testament emphasis on precise obedience and the New Testament's call to spiritual worship?**

### FAQ
**Why was God so strict about the specific offerings and altars in the Tabernacle?**

Answer: God's strictness regarding the Tabernacle's design, rituals, and offerings, as seen in [Exodus 30:9](/exodus/30-9 "Exodus 30:9 - Prohibition on the Altar of Incense"), stemmed from several crucial theological principles. Firstly, it underscored His absolute holiness and transcendence. God is utterly distinct from humanity and the created order, and any approach to Him must be on His terms, not human ones, to avoid defilement and dishonor. Secondly, the meticulous instructions served to teach the Israelites about the nature of sin, atonement, and the pathway to reconciliation. Each offering had a specific purpose, and the altars had distinct functions (e.g., the [Brazen Altar](/exodus/27 "Exodus 27 - The Altar of Burnt Offering") for blood sacrifice, the [Altar of Incense](/exodus/30 "Exodus 30 - The Altar of Incense") for prayer and intercession). Confusing these functions would obscure the profound theological truths they represented and the gravity of sin. Thirdly, it prevented syncretism with pagan practices common in the ancient Near East, where deities were often worshipped with arbitrary, chaotic, or even immoral rituals. God's commands ensured purity of worship and protected Israel's unique covenant relationship with Him, fostering obedience, reverence, and a clear distinction from surrounding nations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 30:9, with its strict prohibitions on "strange incense" and other offerings on the Altar of Incense, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. The Old Testament Tabernacle system, with its altars and sacrifices, served as a "shadow of the good things to come" ([Hebrews 10:1](/hebrews/10-1 "Hebrews 10:1 - The Law as a Shadow")), pointing ultimately to Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate and perfect sacrifice, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), offered once for all on the cross ([Hebrews 9:26](/hebrews/9-26 "Hebrews 9:26 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice")). Therefore, there is no longer any need for the physical burnt offerings, grain offerings, or drink offerings, as their purpose has been fully accomplished in Him, securing eternal redemption. Furthermore, Christ Himself is our great High Priest, who "always lives to intercede" for us ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Priesthood")), and through Him, our prayers—symbolized by the incense—ascend to God as a "fragrant offering" ([Ephesians 5:2](/ephesians/5-2 "Ephesians 5:2 - Christ's Sacrifice as a Fragrant Offering")). We now approach God not through a physical altar and prescribed rituals, but through the "new and living way" opened by Christ's blood ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access to God Through Christ's Blood")), offering spiritual sacrifices of praise and good deeds ([Hebrews 13:15-16](/hebrews/13-15-16 "Hebrews 13:15-16 - Spiritual Sacrifices of Praise and Good Deeds")) in spirit and truth ([John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")). In Christ, all "strange" or unauthorized approaches are rendered obsolete, as He is the sole, divinely authorized means of access to God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Leviticus 10:1

¶ And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not.