### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lᵉbôwnâh**, represented by `{{H3828}}`, refers to **frankincense**, an aromatic resin. It appears 21 times across 21 unique verses in the Bible. The name is derived from a root word signifying whiteness, which may refer to the color of the resin or its smoke.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3828}}` is presented as a valuable and sacred substance. It is a key component of the **meat offering** `{{H4503}}` presented to the LORD `{{H3068}}`, where a priest `{{H3548}}` would burn it upon the **altar** `{{H4196}}` as a **memorial** `{{H234}}` [[Leviticus 2:1-2]]. It was also placed on the shewbread as a memorial [[Leviticus 24:7]]. Beyond its ritual use, it was a precious commodity brought as tribute from places like Sheba `{{H7614}}` [[Isaiah 60:6]] and is described poetically as a desirable fragrance, often alongside **myrrh** `{{H4753}}` ([[Song of Solomon 3:6]], [[Song of Solomon 4:14]]). However, its use is condemned when offered with a disobedient heart, equating the act to blessing an **idol** `{{H205}}` [[Isaiah 66:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the role and context of frankincense:
* `{{H4503}}` **minchâh** (meat offering): This term refers to a sacrificial offering, typically bloodless, where **frankincense** was a required component to be burned before the LORD [[Leviticus 6:15]].
* `{{H6999}}` **qâṭar** (to smoke, i.e. turn into fragrance by fire): This verb describes the action of burning incense or parts of a sacrifice to create a fragrant smoke, as was done with all the **frankincense** of a **meat offering** [[Leviticus 2:2]].
* `{{H4753}}` **môr** (myrrh): A valuable and fragrant gum, **myrrh** is often mentioned in parallel with **frankincense**, highlighting their shared status as precious aromatic substances used for perfume and honor [[Song of Solomon 3:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3828}}` is seen in its specific applications within Israel's worship.
* **Symbol of Pure Worship:** Frankincense was deliberately excluded from a **sin offering** `{{H2403}}` [[Leviticus 5:11]] and the offering of **jealousy** `{{H7068}}` [[Numbers 5:15]]. Its absence in offerings related to transgression suggests it represents worship that is voluntary, pure, and untainted by **iniquity** `{{H5771}}`.
* **A Pleasing Offering:** When included in offerings, it was burned on the **altar** `{{H4196}}` to produce a **sweet** `{{H5207}}` **savour** `{{H7381}}` unto the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Leviticus 2:2]]. This signifies an offering that is acceptable and pleasing to God.
* **Expression of Honor:** As a valuable commodity brought from a **far** `{{H4801}}` **country** `{{H776}}` like Sheba `{{H7614}}` [[Jeremiah 6:20]], offering **frankincense** was an act of honor. It was presented alongside **gold** `{{H2091}}` to **shew forth** `{{H1319}}` the **praises** `{{H8416}}` of the LORD [[Isaiah 60:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3828}}` **lᵉbôwnâh** is far more than a simple aromatic. It is a central element in the biblical expression of worship, representing purity, honor, and what is pleasing to God. Its inclusion in offerings of praise and its exclusion from offerings for sin establish it as a symbol of voluntary and unblemished devotion. From the **altar** of sacrifice to the treasuries of the **house** of the LORD, **frankincense** serves as a tangible expression of reverence for God.
TRV