### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qᵉṭôreth**, represented by `{{H7004}}`, denotes **incense** or **perfume**, deriving from a root word meaning to create smoke or fragrance by fire. It appears 60 times across 58 unique verses. Its primary use is for the sacred fumigation burned as an act of worship within the Tabernacle and Temple, representing a fragrant offering ascending to God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical worship, `{{H7004}}` was a central element with strict regulations. God commanded a specific formula for the "pure incense of sweet spices" which was considered holy [[Exodus 37:29]]. It was burned daily by Aaron on the dedicated altar of incense [[Exodus 30:7-8]]. The use of incense was also critical for atonement; its cloud was required to cover the mercy seat, protecting the high priest from death [[Leviticus 16:13]], and Aaron used it to stop a deadly plague among the people [[Numbers 16:46-47]]. Conversely, improper worship involving incense brought severe judgment, as seen when Nadab and Abihu offered "strange fire" with it [[Leviticus 10:1]] or when King Uzziah unlawfully attempted to burn it [[2 Chronicles 26:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and function of incense:
* `{{H6999}}` **qâṭar** (to smoke, burn incense): This is the root verb from which `{{H7004}}` is derived, describing the action of turning a sacrifice into fragrant smoke. It is used to describe the priestly duty to "burn incense" upon the altar [[1 Samuel 2:28]].
* `{{H4196}}` **mizbêach** (altar): The offering of incense was specifically tied to the "altar of incense," a distinct piece of Tabernacle furniture made of shittim wood and overlaid with gold [[Exodus 30:1]].
* `{{H4289}}` **machtâh** (censer, firepan): This was the vessel used to carry the hot coals and incense for offering. Nadab and Abihu each used a censer when they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD [[Leviticus 10:1]].
* `{{H3722}}` **kâphar** (to make an atonement, appease): This term is linked to the function of incense, as when Aaron was commanded to take a censer with incense and "make an atonement" for the congregation to stop a plague [[Numbers 16:46]].
* `{{H5561}}` **çam** (sweet spice, aroma): This word is frequently paired with `{{H7004}}` to describe the "sweet incense," emphasizing its pleasing and fragrant nature as an offering [[Exodus 30:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7004}}` is significant, symbolizing key aspects of the relationship between God and humanity.
* **A Symbol of Prayer:** The rising smoke of the incense is a powerful physical picture of prayers ascending to God. This connection is made explicit when the psalmist petitions, "Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense" [[Psalms 141:2]].
* **The Holiness of Worship:** The unique, divinely-prescribed composition of the incense, forbidden for common use, established its sacredness [[Exodus 30:37]]. Only the Aaronic priesthood was permitted to offer it, highlighting that approaching God must be done on His terms [[Numbers 16:40]].
* **Atonement and Intercession:** The incense served as a means of atonement and divine appeasement. Its smoke shielded the high priest from God's raw presence [[Leviticus 16:13]] and stood as an agent of mercy between the living and the dead [[Numbers 16:47]].
* **The Heart of the Worshipper:** Scripture shows that the external act of burning incense could be an "abomination" if not accompanied by a righteous heart, demonstrating that God desires sincere worship over empty ritual [[Isaiah 1:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7004}}` is much more than a simple aromatic substance. It is a cornerstone of Old Testament ritual, representing the ascent of prayer, the requirement for holy worship, and the provision of atonement. The regulations and narratives surrounding its use teach that access to God is a sacred privilege, governed by His commands and requiring a heart aligned with His will.
TRV