Exodus 30:1Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Likewise, we ought to reflect on the importance of our mouths and tongues, guarding them against immorality and dedicating them to prayer. If one hesitates to utilize a golden vessel for base purposes due to its inherent value, how much more should we, who possess lips far more valuable than gold and jewels, refrain from polluting them with shameful, degrading, and unholy speech? Incense is not offered on mere brass or gold altars, but upon a much more exquisite altar, within the spiritual sanctuary. While you may seem to be simply a physical entity, within you resides God; you are a part of the body and membership of Christ.

When I contemplate the altar and the altar of incense, I envision the constant adoration of celestial beings within this sacred dwelling. It is stated that not only the beings of the earth and the realm below but also those of the heavens exalt the Sovereign of all: this offering is acceptable to God, described as ‘the fruit of the lips,’ as noted by the Apostle (Hebrews 13:15), along with the sweet aroma of prayers.

The altar of incense, discussed in verses 1-4, is notable for its placement in this chapter rather than in chapter 25, where both the table of showbread and the lampstand are addressed. This positioning is likely due to its significance as an altar from which incense, representing the prayers of the faithful, was offered. Its mention follows the regulations for the ordination of ministers, indicating its role as essential to the overarching purpose of the entire structure, which is the act of turning towards God. Unlike a table, the altar of incense is referred to as an altar of sacrifice. Scholars, including Dom. Calmet and O.