Did you know that the incense burned on the altar of the Israelite temple was composed of four different materials? Understanding the background of these materials could potentially help us improve our relationship with prayer.
Show Notes
Stacte: The Outpouring of Humility
- Where it is found:
- Arabian peninsula, Horn of Africa
- What It Represents:
- Stacte (possibly myrrh) comes from the Hebrew root meaning “to drip,” emphasizing its natural, free-flowing nature.
- It symbolizes a heart that pours out to God in humility and sincerity, unencumbered by pride or pretense.
- Theological Insight:
- Prayer begins with an open, honest heart before God. Just as stacte flows naturally, prayer should emerge authentically from our inner being (Psalm 62:8: “Pour out your heart before Him”).
- Humility is the foundation of prayer. We approach God as finite beings dependent on His infinite grace.
- Application:
- Stacte reminds us that prayer is not forced but a natural response to God’s love and presence.
Onycha: Persistence in Prayer
- Where it is found:
- Red Sea or Indian Ocean
- What it May Represent:
- Onycha (derived from the shell of a mollusk or a resin) adds depth and richness to the incense, symbolizing perseverance and the enduring nature of prayer.
- It may reflect the labor required to obtain it, teaching that prayer often involves effort and persistence.
- Theological Insight:
- Prayer is not always immediate or easy; it requires persistence.
- Onycha’s musky, grounding scent symbolizes the steadfastness needed to pray through struggles and doubts, trusting God’s timing and will.
- Application:
- Onycha teaches us to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17), holding onto faith even when answers seem delayed.
Galbanum: Transformation of Trials
- Where it is found:
- Persian Plateau (Modern Iran), Levant (Syria and Israel)
- What it May Represent:
- Galbanum, known for its pungent and bitter scent, contrasts with the sweet aromas of the other ingredients. Its presence teaches that even the bitterness of life can be part of a holy offering.
- This resin also acts as a fixative, stabilizing and harmonizing the other scents, symbolizing how God brings balance and purpose to life’s trials.
- Theological Insight:
- Prayer transforms suffering. Just as galbanum enhances the incense blend, trials offered to God in prayer become part of a fragrant, sacred offering. “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28).
- It reminds us that prayer is not just for blessings but also a place to bring our pain, frustrations, and bitterness to be refined by God.
- Application:
- Galbanum calls us to trust that even our bitter experiences can contribute to something beautiful when surrendered in prayer.
Frankincense: Purity and Praise
- Where it is found:
- Arabian Peninsula, and Horn of Africa
- What it May Represent:
- Frankincense is the sweet, uplifting element in the blend, symbolizing purity, devotion, and the act of worship.
- Its bright and citrusy aroma reflects the joy and exaltation that arises when we commune with God in prayer.
- Theological Insight:
- Frankincense teaches that prayer is ultimately an act of worship, lifting our hearts and minds toward God. “Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.” (Psalm 141:2)
- It symbolizes the purity of intentions required in prayer. Just as the finest frankincense was used in the Temple, our prayers should be offered with sincerity and love for God.
- Application:
- Frankincense inspires us to approach prayer with a heart full of praise and gratitude, recognizing it as a sacred act of worship.
