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.
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.
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.
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.
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