Exodus 30:5
And thou shalt make the staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with gold.
Original Language Analysis
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ
And thou shalt make
H6213
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ
And thou shalt make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 8
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַבַּדִּ֖ים
the staves
H905
הַבַּדִּ֖ים
the staves
Strong's:
H905
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
Historical Context
The high priest burned incense on this altar twice daily (morning and evening) when tending the lampstand. The fragrant smoke ascending into the Holy Place symbolized prayers rising to God's throne.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's intercession make your prayers acceptable to God?
- Why must sacrifice (bronze altar) precede prayer (golden altar)?
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Analysis & Commentary
The golden altar of incense stands before the veil, closest to God's presence. Daily incense offerings represent prayer ascending to God (Psalm 141:2, Revelation 5:8, 8:3-4). The altar's position—after the bronze altar (sacrifice) but before the Most Holy Place (God's throne)—teaches that prayer is based on atonement and leads to intimacy. Christ, our intercessor, causes our prayers to ascend acceptably, adding His perfect intercession to our imperfect petitions.