Exodus 30:7Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

God has ordained that He should be worshipped persistently, at both the start and the close of each day. The Psalmist desires that his prayer be akin to this offering, untainted by the impurities of the one presenting it, much like the incense that is pure and sacred (Psalm 140:2). Through this petition, he instructs us to present prayers that are both pure and pleasing. This reflects the truth, as sin is odious. This is why he expresses the foulness of sin, stating, "For my iniquities have exceeded my head; like a heavy burden, they weigh upon me" (Psalms 37:5). Just as incense is inherently good and aromatic, it becomes even more fragrant when ignited, so too is prayer inherently good but elevated and more pleasing when offered with fervent passion.

In the third volume, which addresses the role of the high priest, it discusses the circumstances of the births of his children and the requirement for him to enter the Holy of Holies twice daily. This sacred space housed the altar of incense, where offerings were made both in the morning and the evening, and it was expressly stated in the Law that those who were unclean were prohibited from entering. The Law also stipulates that a man becomes unclean after engaging in marital relations, mandating that he must cleanse himself with water; however, having bathed, he remains unclean until evening. I suggest that he either refrained or, on certain days, did not perform the censing, which may not have been readily apparent.

Within this dwelling, the offerings of gratitude and the aroma of prayer are perpetually present, both at dawn and dusk. King David highlights this by positioning the prayer's incense in the sweet fragrance before the Lord and by presenting his offerings with hands raised high (Psalms 140:2).

We engage in the holy ministry directed inwardly, as we present to God incense, the illumination of lamps, and the sacred priesthood of the holy communion.

Sin: The neglect of the obligation to offer oil and candles before sacred images The honoring of holy images through the lighting of candles or burning of oil and incense is a practice divinely instituted in Scripture, as seen in Exodus 30:7-8, and has been affirmed by the Ecumenical Councils. Therefore, failing to show such reverence to these icons—when the means to do so are available—during daily prayers or on holy days, is a sin of neglect. However, it is essential that one does not overly depend on merely lighting a lamp before the icons, as this should not replace genuine and heartfelt communication with God. While the lamp may be lit, it is vital to maintain a spirit of prayerfulness during daily activities. Moreover, one should feel encouraged to attend church or to observe fasting, even if there is no opportunity to light a candle within the church.

"Let my prayer ascend like incense in your sight, the lifting of my hands like the evening offering" (Psalm 140:2). The fragrant smoke was an essential element of the daily morning and evening sacrifices, representing prayer, as previously mentioned. These acts, along with the illumination of the lamps, formed the complete ritual dedicated to the service of the God of Israel. In their profound purity, especially when contrasted with the rites and shamanistic practices of ancient pagan religions, these rituals invite reflection from those who can immerse themselves in that historical context. This marked a significant progression for humanity during that period, leading toward a deeper awareness and reverence for its spiritual essence and the worship of God in spirit and truth.