THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
In the outer sanctuary stood a brass altar where a lamb was offered and consumed each evening. This ritual, known as the evening sacrifice (Psalms 140:2), accompanied a morning sacrifice, ensuring that the altar was kindled twice daily, alongside additional offerings made by the congregation. The law mandated that when the people did not bring offerings, the priests were to present and burn a lamb both in the morning and the evening as their own sacrifices; the morning offering was referred to as the morning sacrifice, while the evening one was called the evening sacrifice. This directive stemmed from God’s intention for them to serve Him throughout the day, from dawn to dusk.
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Such offerings and the accompanying incense consistently pleased God; however, the sin-offering’s acceptance varied, depending on the moral disposition of those presenting it. In contrast, offerings made not for the sins of others but as legitimate acts of worship and routine service were perpetually pleasing. Consequently, the Psalmist requests that his prayer be akin to these offerings, untouched by any impurity, resembling pure and holy incense. The prophet desires that his prayer function like the censer and that the act of laying hands reflect the evening sacrifice, as both are acceptable to God. This is true only if both are genuine, free from blame—both the tongue and hands should be devoid of greed and deceit, while the former remains clear of harmful words.