# incense

## Definition:

The term “incense” refers to a mixture of fragrant spices that is burned to produce smoke that has a pleasant smell.

* God told the Israelites to burn incense as an offering to him.
* The incense had to be made by mixing equal amounts of five specific spices exactly as God directed. This was a sacred incense, so they were not allowed to use it for any other purpose.
* The “altar of incense” was a special altar that was only used for burning incense.
* The incense was offered at least four times a day, at each hour of prayer. It was also offered every time a burnt offering was made.
* The burning of incense represents prayer and worship rising up to God from his people.
* Other ways to translate “incense” could include “fragrant spices” or “good-smelling plants.”

(See also: [altar of incense](../other/altarofincense.md), [burnt offering](../other/burntoffering.md), [frankincense](../other/frankincense.md))

## Bible References:

* [1 Kings 3:1-3](rc://en/tn/help/1ki/03/01)
* [2 Chronicles 13:10-11](rc://en/tn/help/2ch/13/10)
* [2 Kings 14:4](rc://en/tn/help/2ki/14/04)
* [Exodus 25:3-7](rc://en/tn/help/exo/25/03)
* [Luke 1:10](rc://en/tn/help/luk/01/10)

## Word Data:

* Strong’s: H2553, H3828, H4196, H4289, H5208, H6988, H6999, H7002, H7004, H7381, G23680, G23690, G23700, G23790, G30310
