Exodus 31:11 - the anointing oil, and the incense of sweet spices for the holy place: according to all that I have commanded you they shall do.”

Generated Verse: Exodus 31:11

What does "Exodus 31:11" mean?


Exodus 31:11 is part of a larger section in Exodus (specifically chapters 30 and 31) detailing the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and its associated items. Let's break down what this verse means:

"The anointing oil..." This refers to a special oil to be compounded according to a specific recipe given in Exodus 30:22-33. It was used to consecrate the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests, setting them apart as holy for God's service. This anointing made them sacred and designated for divine purposes.

"...and the incense of sweet spices for the holy place..." This is another specialized mixture (Exodus 30:34-38) of fragrant spices. It was burned on the altar of incense within the Holy Place of the Tabernacle. The rising smoke symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God. The "sweet spices" indicate a pleasant offering to God.

"...for the holy place..." This clarifies the designated area where the incense would be burned. The "holy place" is the inner chamber of the Tabernacle, distinct from the "most holy place" where the Ark of the Covenant was kept.

"...according to all that I have commanded you they shall do.” This emphasizes the importance of precise obedience to God's instructions. The making and use of the anointing oil and incense were not left to personal preference or improvisation. They were to be done exactly as God had prescribed, signifying reverence and acknowledging God's authority. "They" refers to those designated and skilled, specifically Bezalel and Oholiab and their craftsmen mentioned in the preceeding verses, who would have the divinely given wisdom and ability to perform these specialized tasks.

In summary, the verse highlights the following:

Sanctification: The anointing oil was for setting apart objects and people for God's holy purposes.
Worship: The incense represented prayers and offerings made to God.
Obedience: Strict adherence to God's commands was paramount in all aspects of worship and service.
Divine Design: The items and their use were part of God's specific plan for how He wanted to be approached and worshipped.

Theological Significance:

The anointing oil and incense symbolize the set-apartness of God's presence, the importance of prayer, and the need for meticulous obedience in serving God. They are tangible reminders of the holiness and sacredness of worship.

In a broader context, these items foreshadow the ultimate anointing and intercession of Jesus Christ as the High Priest who mediates between God and humanity.

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