Exodus 30
BBCExodus 30:1
C. Further Instructions Concerning the Tabernacle (Chaps. 30, 31)1. The Altar of Incense (30:1-10)The altar of incense was a gold-plated wooden altar which stood in the holy place. It was eighteen inches square and three feet high. It was also known as the golden altar. On this altar, incense was burned both morning and evening, picturing the intercessory work of Christ on our behalf. Although this altar was in the holy place, it was so intimately connected with the holy of holies that the writer to the Hebrews possibly mentions it as being behind the second veil (Heb_9:4, KJV), although the word in Hebrews can also be translated censer (NKJV). The altar was carried on poles that were placed through rings that were under the molding on opposite sides.
Exodus 30:11
- The Redemption Money (30:11-16)God ordered every male Israelite twenty years old and above to pay half a shekel as a ransom for himself. This payment, the same for rich and poor, was levied whenever there was a census and was used to finance the service of the tabernacle. It guaranteed protection against plague (v. 12). At the outset it was used to make silver sockets to support the boards of the tabernacle. Silver speaks of redemption, which is the foundation of our faith. Redemption is needed by all and is available to all on the same terms.
Exodus 30:17
- The Laver (30:17-21)The laver of bronze stood between the entrance to the tabernacle of meeting and the altar. It was a basin where the priests could wash their hands and their feet. It was made of the bronze mirrors donated by the women (Exo_38:8). No dimensions are given. Any priest who handled holy things before washing was sentenced to death. This is a solemn reminder that we must be spiritually and morally clean before entering any service for the Lord (see Heb_10:22).
Exodus 30:22
- The Anointing Oil (30:22-33)A holy anointing oil was used to anoint the tabernacle, its furniture, and the priests themselves. It was not to be used for any other purpose. Oil in Scripture is often a type of the Holy Spirit. The anointing of the priests signifies the necessity for enduement of the Spirit in all divine service.
Exodus 30:34
- The Incense (30:34-38)The incense was a perfume made of various spices that was burned on the golden altar of incense morning and evening. Like the oil, it was not to be imitated or used elsewhere.