### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qᵉṭôwrâh**, represented by `{{H6988}}`, translates to **perfume** or **incense**. It is derived from the word קָטַר and appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single appearance highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H6988}}` is found in [[Deuteronomy 33:10]], in the context of the duties assigned to the tribes of Israel. The verse states, "They shall teach Jacob thy judgments, and Israel thy law: they shall put **incense** before thee, and whole burnt sacrifice upon thine altar." Here, the offering of incense is a sacred act of worship performed before God, directly linked with the responsibility of teaching God's law and judgments. It is presented alongside the "whole burnt sacrifice" on the altar, signifying its central role in the ceremonial system.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from its single context illuminate the meaning of this act of worship:
* `{{H3384}}` **yârâh** (teach): Defined as "to point out... to teach," this word establishes the foundational duty connected to the offering of incense. The act of worship is not separate from the act of instruction in God's ways [[Deuteronomy 33:10]].
* `{{H4941}}` **mishpâṭ** (judgments): This term refers to a "verdict," "formal decree," or "justice." The incense offering is performed by those who also administer and teach these divine decrees to the people [[Deuteronomy 33:10]].
* `{{H3632}}` **kâlîyl** (whole burnt sacrifice): Meaning "complete" or a "sacrifice entirely consumed," this word appears in parallel with incense. It highlights a form of offering that is given wholly to God [[Deuteronomy 33:10]].
* `{{H4196}}` **mizbêach** (altar): This is the designated location for both the incense and the whole burnt sacrifice. The altar is the sacred space where offerings are made and communion with God takes place [[Deuteronomy 33:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6988}}` is understood through its specific and unique context.
* **Worship and Instruction:** The offering of **incense** is intrinsically tied to the teaching of God's law `{{H8451}}` and judgments `{{H4941}}`. This demonstrates that true worship involves both ritual devotion and adherence to divine instruction [[Deuteronomy 33:10]].
* **A Complete Offering:** Presented with the "whole burnt sacrifice" `{{H3632}}`, the **incense** is part of a total act of dedication. The related word `{{H3632}}` also denotes "perfection," suggesting the offering is one of completeness and perfection before God [[Lamentations 2:15]].
* **Approaching God's Presence:** The **incense** is to be put "before" `{{H639}}` God, a term that denotes the face or presence. This act, performed on the altar `{{H4196}}`, symbolizes a direct and reverent approach to the divine presence through an acceptable offering.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H6988}}` **qᵉṭôwrâh** appears only once, its meaning is profound. It is not merely a fragrant perfume but a sacred **incense** offered as part of a solemn duty. Its use in [[Deuteronomy 33:10]] frames it as an essential element of worship, inseparable from the teaching of God's law and the offering of complete sacrifices upon the altar, representing a holistic act of devotion and covenantal responsibility.
TRV