Exodus 35:15

And the incense altar, and his staves, and the anointing oil, and the sweet incense, and the hanging for the door at the entering in of the tabernacle,

And the incense {H7004} altar {H4196}, and his staves {H905}, and the anointing {H4888} oil {H8081}, and the sweet {H5561} incense {H7004}, and the hanging {H4539} for the door at the entering in {H6607} of the tabernacle {H4908},

the incense altar with its poles; the anointing oil; the fragrant incense; the screen for the entranceway at the entrance to the tabernacle;

the altar of incense with its poles; the anointing oil and fragrant incense; the curtain for the doorway at the entrance to the tabernacle;

and the altar of incense, and its staves, and the anointing oil, and the sweet incense, and the screen for the door, at the door of the tabernacle;

Commentary

Context of Exodus 35:15

Exodus 35 marks a pivotal moment in the wilderness journey of the Israelites after receiving the Law at Mount Sinai. Following the instructions for the Tabernacle's construction detailed in earlier chapters (Exodus 25-31), Moses now calls upon the people to bring their freewill offerings to construct and furnish this sacred dwelling place for God. This verse, Exodus 35:15, is part of a comprehensive list of specific materials and items needed, emphasizing the meticulous detail required by God for His dwelling place among His people.

Key Items and Their Significance

This verse highlights several crucial components of the Tabernacle's interior and its sacred rituals:

  • The Incense Altar and His Staves: Located in the Holy Place, just before the veil separating it from the Most Holy Place, the incense altar was where sweet incense was burned morning and evening. This practice symbolized the prayers of the saints ascending to God (Revelation 8:3). The staves underscore its portability, reflecting God's presence moving with His people during their wilderness wanderings.
  • The Anointing Oil: This special, holy oil (Exodus 30:22-33) was used to consecrate the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests, setting them apart exclusively for God's service. It symbolized sanctification, the presence of the Holy Spirit, and divine appointment.
  • The Sweet Incense: A specific, divinely prescribed blend (Exodus 30:34-38), burned on the incense altar. Its pleasant aroma filled the Tabernacle, signifying acceptable worship, prayer, and the presence of God.
  • The Hanging for the Door at the Entering In of the Tabernacle: This was the outermost curtain, serving as the entrance to the Tabernacle courtyard. It was distinct from the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. This hanging marked the threshold between the common world and the sacred space where God dwelled, controlling access and emphasizing the holiness within.

Spiritual Application

While these items belonged to the Old Covenant Tabernacle, their spiritual significance resonates today. The meticulous instructions remind us of God's holiness and His desire for worship that is reverent and intentional. The incense altar points to the importance of prayer and worship in our lives, while the anointing oil signifies God's setting apart of believers for His purposes through the Holy Spirit. The coverings and hangings symbolize the necessary separation between the holy and the common, and ultimately, Christ Himself as the true "door" or "way" to God (John 10:9). As believers, we are called to be a spiritual house, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ (1 Peter 2:5).

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 30:1

    ¶ And thou shalt make an altar to burn incense upon: [of] shittim wood shalt thou make it.

  • Exodus 30:10

    And Aaron shall make an atonement upon the horns of it once in a year with the blood of the sin offering of atonements: once in the year shall he make atonement upon it throughout your generations: it [is] most holy unto the LORD.

  • Exodus 37:25

    ¶ And he made the incense altar [of] shittim wood: the length of it [was] a cubit, and the breadth of it a cubit; [it was] foursquare; and two cubits [was] the height of it; the horns thereof were of the same.

  • Exodus 37:28

    And he made the staves [of] shittim wood, and overlaid them with gold.

  • Exodus 36:37

    And he made an hanging for the tabernacle door [of] blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, of needlework;

  • Exodus 36:38

    And the five pillars of it with their hooks: and he overlaid their chapiters and their fillets with gold: but their five sockets [were of] brass.

  • Exodus 30:22

    ¶ Moreover the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
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