Commentary on Exodus 37:27

Verse Context: Exodus 37:27 states:

"And he made the incense altar of shittim wood: the length of it was a cubit, and the breadth of it a cubit; it was foursquare; and two cubits was the height of it: the horns thereof were of the same." (Exodus 37:27 KJV)

Introduction

Exodus 37:27 details the construction of the altar of incense, an integral component of the tabernacle's furnishings. This verse, while brief, encapsulates key theological themes pertinent to the worship of God and the symbolism embedded within the tabernacle. The altar signifies the importance of prayer and incense in the life of the community of Israel as a means of communion with the Divine.

Symbolism of the Incense Altar

Matthew Henry’s Insights: Henry emphasizes the symbolic nature of the altar of incense. The fact that it was made of shittim wood, an enduring and valuable material, alludes to the durable nature of prayer. Just as wood, though earthly, was transformed into a vessel for divine service, so too are believers encouraged to transform their mundane offerings—thoughts, prayers, and actions—into avenues of sacredness.

Albert Barnes’ Observations: Barnes highlights the altar’s dimensions, noting they reflect the foundational principles of balance and proportion in God’s worship. The square shape symbolizes stability and completeness, mirroring the need for holiness in the life of the believer. The two-cubit height signifies the elevation of prayer, suggesting that offerings of incense represent the aspirations of God's people to reach Him.

Adam Clarke’s Analysis: Clarke offers additional insight into the function of the altar within the tabernacle. He elaborates that the act of burning incense was integral to the sacrificial system, paralleling prayer’s role in the life of the church. It serves as a reminder that our prayers are to rise to God, much as the fragrant smoke of incense ascends, suggesting an intimate communication between God and His people.

Practices of Worship in Israel

This verse not only tells of the altar’s physical attributes but also serves as a pivotal reminder of the practices of worship among the Israelites. The Jewish tradition emphasizes the importance of prayer, and the altar was central to this sacrificial and intercessory practice.

• Prayer as Incense: Psalm 141:2 likens prayer to incense. The burning of incense symbolized the prayers of the saints going forth to God (Revelation 5:8). The physicality of the altar serves to remind believers of the necessity of a tangible, dedicated space for spiritual disciplines.
• Community Worship: The use of the altar was not an individual endeavor but a collective act of worship, fostering unity among the tribes of Israel as they came together in reverence before God.

Theological Application

The construction details of the altar call the believer to consider their role in worship. Just as the Israelites were instructed to partake in sacred rituals, so too are modern believers called to engage in God-centered worship that ascends before Him. This brings forth several theological implications:

• Divine Accessibility: The altar reflects God’s desire for His people to approach Him with their prayers. The dimensions, as emphasized by Clarke, suggest an accessible God who invites His faithful into a relationship marked by communication and communion.
• Holiness in Worship: The specific instructions regarding the altar’s construction remind scholars and pastors alike that worship must be conducted according to divine principles and not human designs. The sacredness of the altar requires that offerings made to God—be they prayers or sacrifices—are done with a holy heart.

Practical Insights for Today’s Believer

For contemporary Christians, the significance of the altar of incense extends beyond historical understanding. It compels believers to reflect on their own prayer lives and how they present their offerings to God:

• Intentionality in Prayer: As the altar was an intentional construction directed by God’s specifications, so the believer’s prayer life should be intentional, structured, and thoughtfully approached.
• Elevated Worship: Just as the altar was designed to be raised, believers are encouraged to arise in their spiritual practices, lifting their hearts and prayers to God with reverence and sincerity.
• Collective Worship Practices: Engaging in communal prayer reflects the unity once seen in the worship practices of Israel. This calls modern churches to cultivate environments where prayer is central, fostering both individual and corporate engagement with God.

Conclusion

Exodus 37:27, while a seemingly simple verse, unveils profound truths about worship, prayer, and divine communion. By reflecting on the insights offered by respected public domain commentators such as Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we discern a meaningful message relevant to the modern believer. Just as the incense marked the worship of ancient Israel, so our prayers today must ascend before God, pleasing Him and bringing us into deeper fellowship with Him.