### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thymíama**, represented by `{{G2368}}`, refers to **incense** or **odour**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses**. The term denotes a fragrant powder burnt in religious service and, by implication, the act of burning itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2368}}` is used in both earthly and heavenly contexts. In Luke, it is associated with the temple service, specifically at the "altar of **incense**" [[Luke 1:11]] and during the "time of **incense**" [[Luke 1:10]]. In the book of Revelation, it is listed among valuable trade goods like cinnamon and ointments [[Revelation 18:13]]. Its most significant use is symbolic, where golden vials are full of **odours** that "are the **prayers** of **saints**" [[Revelation 5:8]]. This is further illustrated when an angel offers "much **incense**" with the prayers of the saints at the golden altar before the throne of God [[Revelation 8:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of worship and valuable fragrances:
* `{{G4335}}` **proseuchḗ** (prayer): This word is directly and symbolically linked to `{{G2368}}`. The smoke of the **incense** ascends with the **prayers** of the saints, and the **odours** themselves are said to be their **prayers** ([[Revelation 5:8]], [[Revelation 8:4]]).
* `{{G40}}` **hágios** (holy): This term describes the **saints** whose prayers are represented by the **incense** ascending to God ([[Revelation 5:8]], [[Revelation 8:3]]).
* `{{G3031}}` **libanōtós** (censer): The vessel used to burn incense. An angel uses a golden **censer** to offer the **incense** `{{G2368}}` at the heavenly altar [[Revelation 8:3]].
* `{{G3030}}` **líbanos** (frankincense): Defined as incense itself, it is listed alongside **odours** `{{G2368}}` as a form of merchandise [[Revelation 18:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2368}}` is centered on the nature of prayer and worship.
* **Earthly Worship:** The word is grounded in the physical act of temple worship, establishing a connection between the offering of **incense** and a specific time of prayer [[Luke 1:10]].
* **Symbol of Prayer:** In the heavenly scenes of Revelation, `{{G2368}}` is transformed into a powerful symbol. The **odours** are not merely accompanied by prayers; they *are* the **prayers** of the saints, held in golden vials [[Revelation 5:8]].
* **Acceptable Offering:** The smoke of the **incense**, combined with the prayers of the saints, is shown ascending "before God" from an angel's hand, signifying that the prayers are received as a pleasing and acceptable offering in heaven [[Revelation 8:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2368}}` moves from a tangible element of religious service to a profound spiritual reality. While it can denote a physical substance used in temple rites [[Luke 1:11]] or a simple commodity [[Revelation 18:13]], its primary theological contribution is as a metaphor for the prayers of the **saints**. It vividly portrays these prayers as a fragrant and valuable offering that ascends and is accepted in the very presence of God.
TRV