The Biblical Significance of Frankincense: A Symbol of Worship and Prayer

Throughout Scripture, certain elements hold deep spiritual meaning, and frankincense is one of them. Mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments, frankincense is not just a pleasant-smelling resin—it is a symbol of worship, prayer, and purity before God. From the Tabernacle rituals of ancient Israel to the gifts presented to baby Jesus, frankincense carries profound significance for believers. In this post, we’ll explore the biblical meaning of frankincense and how it can deepen our understanding of worship and devotion today.

What Is Frankincense?

Frankincense is an aromatic resin harvested from the Boswellia tree, native to the Arabian Peninsula and parts of East Africa. When the tree’s bark is cut, it produces a gum-like substance that hardens into resin. This resin is burned as incense, producing a rich, fragrant smoke used in religious ceremonies throughout the ancient world.

While it was valuable for its fragrance and medicinal properties, frankincense had an even greater value in the worship of God, especially in Israelite rituals. In Scripture, it is frequently mentioned as part of the sacred incense used in the Temple, symbolizing purity, prayer, and the presence of God.

Frankincense in the Old Testament: A Symbol of Worship

Frankincense was integral to the worship and offerings of the Israelites. In the Book of Exodus, God commands Moses to create a special blend of incense for use in the Tabernacle, and frankincense is one of the key ingredients.

• “Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha and galbanum—and pure frankincense, all in equal amounts, and make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer. It is to be salted and pure and sacred.” (Exodus 30:34-35)

The sacred incense was burned before the Ark of the Covenant, filling the Tabernacle with a fragrant smoke that symbolized the prayers of the people rising to God. Its use set the space apart as holy, reminding the Israelites of God’s presence and their need for purity in worship.

Frankincense was also part of the grain offerings given to God as an act of devotion and thanksgiving.

• "And when anyone brings a grain offering as an offering to the Lord, his offering shall be of fine flour. And he shall pour oil on it and put frankincense on it." (Leviticus 2:1)

The addition of frankincense to these offerings highlighted the importance of approaching God with reverence and thanksgiving, offering Him our best with a heart of gratitude.

Frankincense as a Gift to Jesus: A Prophetic Symbol

Frankincense’s most well-known appearance in the Bible is in the story of the Magi—the wise men from the East who visited Jesus after His birth. Among their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, frankincense represented something extraordinary.

• “On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” (Matthew 2:11)

Each gift had symbolic meaning:

• Gold symbolized Jesus' kingship.
• Frankincense pointed to His divinity and role as High Priest, mediating between God and man.
• Myrrh foreshadowed His suffering and death.

By presenting frankincense, the Magi were acknowledging Jesus as divine, worthy of worship, and destined to serve as our High Priest. Just as the priests in the Old Testament used frankincense in their worship and offerings, Jesus would later fulfill the role of the ultimate priest, offering Himself as a sacrifice for our sins.

Frankincense and Prayer: A Spiritual Symbol

Frankincense is not just a fragrant offering; it represents the prayers of the faithful ascending to heaven. In the Psalms, we see this symbolic connection between incense and prayer:

• “May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.” (Psalm 141:2)

Just as the smoke of frankincense rises, filling the air, so too do our prayers ascend to God. This imagery reminds us that our prayers are pleasing to God and that He hears us when we call upon Him.

In the Book of Revelation, frankincense appears again, showing that incense continues to symbolize prayer in the heavenly realm:

• “The smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of God’s people, went up before God from the angel’s hand.” (Revelation 8:4)

This profound image reflects the importance of prayer in our relationship with God. It is a reminder that our prayers are not in vain; they are cherished and received by our loving Father in heaven.

How Frankincense Relates to Us Today

While we no longer use frankincense in our worship services today, its symbolism remains relevant. Frankincense calls us to reflect on a few important truths:

1. Purity in Worship: Just as frankincense was used to purify the Tabernacle, we are called to worship God with pure hearts, offering our lives as "living sacrifices" that are holy and pleasing to Him (Romans 12:1).

2. The Power of Prayer: The rising smoke of frankincense reminds us that our prayers are heard by God. We can approach Him with confidence, knowing that our prayers are precious in His sight.

3. Jesus as Our High Priest: Frankincense points us to Jesus, the One who mediates on our behalf before God. Through His sacrifice, we have direct access to the Father, and He intercedes for us continually.

4. Offering Our Best to God: Just as the Israelites were instructed to include frankincense in their offerings, we are called to give God the best of our time, talents, and treasures. Our lives should be a fragrant offering, pleasing to Him in every way.

Conclusion

Frankincense, both in its literal and symbolic uses, represents the beauty of prayer, worship, and offering ourselves to God. As we reflect on the biblical significance of this precious resin, we are reminded of our own call to live lives of purity, devotion, and prayer. Just as the aroma of frankincense filled the air in the Tabernacle and Temple, so too should our worship and prayers rise to God, pleasing Him and drawing us closer to His presence.

Closing Prayer

Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, we thank You for the gift of worship and prayer. May our lives be like frankincense, a fragrant offering rising before You in purity and devotion. Help us to draw near to You daily in prayer, trusting that You hear us and love us. Thank You for sending Jesus, our High Priest, who intercedes for us. May our worship be pleasing to You, and may our lives reflect Your holiness. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.