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.
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.
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.
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.
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