King James Version

What Does Exodus 30:1 Mean?

Exodus 30:1 in the King James Version says “And thou shalt make an altar to burn incense upon: of shittim wood shalt thou make it.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 30 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And thou shalt make an altar to burn incense upon: of shittim wood shalt thou make it.”

Exodus 30:1 · KJV

Context

1

And thou shalt make an altar to burn incense upon: of shittim wood shalt thou make it.

2

A cubit shall be the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof; foursquare shall it be: and two cubits shall be the height thereof: the horns thereof shall be of the same.

3

And thou shalt overlay it with pure gold, the top thereof, and the sides thereof round about, and the horns thereof; and thou shalt make unto it a crown of gold round about. top: Heb. roof sides: Heb. walls

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The golden altar for burning incense, made of acacia wood overlaid with gold—again the pattern of humanity (wood) and deity (gold) united. This altar stands in the Holy Place before the veil, representing prayer and worship ascending to God. The Hebrew קְטֹרֶת (qetoret, incense) symbolizes prayer (Psalm 141:2, Revelation 5:8). Christ, our intercessor, causes our prayers to ascend acceptably to God, adding His incense (perfect prayer) to ours.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Unlike the bronze altar (for sacrifice) in the outer court, this golden altar stood inside the Holy Place, closest to the Most Holy Place. Its position emphasized that prayer follows sacrifice—we pray based on atoning blood.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Christ add His 'incense' to your prayers, making them acceptable to God?
  2. Why must the sacrifice altar (atonement) precede the incense altar (prayer)?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
תַּֽעֲשֶׂ֥ה1 of 8

“And thou shalt make”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

מִזְבֵּ֖חַ2 of 8

“an altar”

H4196

an altar

מִקְטַ֣ר3 of 8

“to burn”

H4729

something to fume (incense) on i.e., a hearth place

קְטֹ֑רֶת4 of 8

“incense”

H7004

a fumigation

עֲצֵ֥י5 of 8

“wood”

H6086

a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)

שִׁטִּ֖ים6 of 8

“upon of shittim”

H7848

the acacia (from its scourging thorns)

תַּֽעֲשֶׂ֥ה7 of 8

“And thou shalt make”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֹתֽוֹ׃8 of 8
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 30:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Exodus 30:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Revelation 8:3Exodus 37:25-28Leviticus 4:7Exodus 40:52 Chronicles 26:16Exodus 30:7-8

Test Your Knowledge

Exodus 30 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterExodus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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