In our previous post on P27, we delved into the intriguing correlation between frankincense and the prayers of the saints, as explicitly stated in Revelation 5:8: “…bowls full of incense—which are the prayers of the kedoshim.” This fascinating connection continues to unfold in P28 which sheds light on the significance of the priesthood’s instructions to burn incense on a regular basis, further emphasizing the integral role of incense in spiritual rituals.
P28 – To burn a spice offering twice [each] day, as Exodus 30:7 states: “And Aaron shall burn incense upon it….[1]“
The correlation between spices and prayers has already been established in the prior post. The relationship between incense and the prayers of the saints is unquestionable, as evident in key passages such as Revelation 5:8 and 8:3-4. However, it is worth noting that this symbolic theme of incense representing prayers is not confined solely to the book of Revelation. It can be traced back to earlier scriptural references, demonstrating its presence and significance throughout various parts of Scripture.
Psalm 141:2 (TLV)
2 May my prayer be set before You like incense. May the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.
Now that we have established the direct association between the prayers of the saints and the burning of incense, let us explore a different dimension: the significance of the ‘twice daily’ aspect highlighted in P28. While it is essential to pray consistently, there seems to be a particular emphasis on the call to prayer at appointed times, twice daily. Interestingly, as we examine the Gospels, we find a tangible demonstration of this practice through the example of our Master. By engaging in His own “twice daily burning of incense”, He provides a powerful illustration for us, His disciples and imitators, on how we should approach our daily routine, incorporating dedicated moments of prayer.
Expanding on this perspective, it becomes apparent that giving priority to morning prayer is both appropriate and significant. It is crucial to make prayer the first thing we engage in upon awakening, even before the sun rises. This practice finds its roots in the demonstration given by Jesus, who consistently rose early to find moments of solitude for prayer. His unwavering commitment to this practice should serve as a powerful reminder for us to emulate His example, ensuring that prayer becomes an integral part of our daily routine. By doing so, we elevate prayer to a position of intentional focus rather than leaving it to chance or emergent needs.
Mark 1:35 (TLV)
35 Very early, while it was still night, Yeshua got up, left, and went away to a place in the wilderness; and there He was praying.
Luke 5:16 (TLV)
16 Yet He would often slip away into the wilderness and pray.
Engaging in morning prayer holds a significant place in the life of faith. This importance becomes evident when considering P28, where the sages took particular notice of the doubled language used for offering the incense in the morning. It is noteworthy that numerous resources discussing this passage emphasize and draw attention to the repetition of ‘in the morning, in the morning.’ All of these sources are in agreement that this collective emphasis serves to underscore the profound significance attributed to the morning practice of prayer.
Rebbi Simeon ben Laqish said, it is a biblical command: in the morning, in the morning, when he cleans the lights he shall burn the incense[2]
When examining the instructions for the operation of the Temple, a common question arises among multiple resources: ‘How do we determine which act takes precedence?’ Interestingly, the consensus reached by these sources consistently affirms that the altar of incense should be given priority. This unanimous conclusion highlights the significance attributed to the altar of incense within the sacred context of the Temple.
Let that of which it is written “in the morning, in the morning” take precedence to that of which only one “in the morning” is written.[3]
Through these numerous examples, of which I have presented just one among many, it becomes clear that prayer should hold the utmost importance in the daily life of a disciple. Before embarking on the day-to-day service of the Kingdom, it is essential to begin the day with a devoted time of communion with God. This intimate time of connection prepares and equips us for the subsequent ‘Temple service,’ where we transition from prayer to actively engaging in our daily labors to build God’s Temple and advance His Kingdom.
This understanding sheds light on why we observe Yeshua rising before the dawn, setting apart that sacred time with His Father and nurturing His soul through intimate exchange. It is within this relational interaction with the Father that His spirit is invigorated and prepared for the tasks ahead
Evening Prayers
After the offering of incense, the daily Temple service commences with the presentation of the first sacrifice. Throughout the day, individuals bring forth their own offerings, and the Temple service unfolds until its culmination with the addition of the closing daily burnt offering upon the altar, marking the conclusion of the services. Additionally, in accordance with the instructions in P28, the priests faithfully perform the second daily round of incense at the same designated time of day, as it is written:
Exodus 30:8 (TLV)
8 Also when Aaron keeps the lamps lit at dusk he must burn it. There must be incense continually before Adonai, throughout your generations.
Jesus indeed exemplifies the same characteristics and pattern in His daily ministry. A notable example can be found in the story of His miraculous feeding of the 5,000. Towards the end of the day, when the hour was already late as mentioned in Mark 6:35, Yeshua completed His service to the crowds, fulfilling His ministry for the day. Subsequently, He dismissed the people, and upon leaving the crowds, He sought a solitary place to engage in His own version of offering the “daily incense” through prayer.
Mark 6:46 (TLV)
46 After leaving them, He went up on the hillside to pray.
The Apostles Continued Testimony
Our Master, Yeshua, serves as a powerful example by starting His day in prayer and concluding His days with prayer. His consistent practice provides a practical model for each of us to personally implement the command to daily offer incense in the morning and evening.
This pattern of prioritizing prayer is not only evident in the life of Yeshua but can also be observed in various passages throughout the Apostolic Writings. Even before the Gentile world fully embraced the message of the Kingdom, “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand,” we encounter the story of Cornelius, who was already actively participating in the appointed hours of prayer.
Acts 10:30 (TLV)
30 Cornelius declared, “Four days ago at this hour, I was praying minchah in my house. Suddenly, a man stood in front of me in shining clothes.
In another compelling demonstration found in the Book of Acts, we witness the Apostles and the early fellowship of believers wholeheartedly devoting themselves to “the prayers.” This reference to “the prayers” carries cultural significance, indicating their active engagement in the appointed times of prayer, including liturgical communal prayers. Through their participation in these communal prayer gatherings, they actively partook in the spiritual offering of incense, symbolizing their collective worship and devotion.
Acts 2:42 (ESV)
42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.
I fully understand that the literal meaning and understanding of P28 does not pertain to our present circumstances. We are not physically present in the Temple, offering incense on the Altar of Incense on a daily basis. It is important to acknowledge the literal interpretation and recognize its significance when the Temple is in operation. However, in our current context, the application of P28 seems to align with our daily prayer practices. Unfortunately, I have observed that many believers, including myself, often fall short in dedicating the appropriate measure of time to prayer, failing to fully emulate our Master’s example.
As we strive to grow in our resemblance to Yeshua, it is worth considering the daily goal of offering Him the twice-daily incense offering in our prayer life. While we may not hold the role of priests officiating in the physical Temple, we can spiritually participate in its service through our committed and intentional prayers. Let us make a conscious commitment to engage in prayer twice daily, following the pattern set by Jesus and His Apostles. By doing so, we align ourselves with their practice and deepen our spiritual connection with our Heavenly Father—on His terms and according to His teachings.