What Does the Bible Say About Burning Incense?

Incense has been used across numerous cultures throughout history. From Indian and Chinese to Greek and Egyptian civilizations, burning aromatic substances has been a significant practice for millennia. The word 'incense' derives from the Latin term 'incendere,' which literally means 'to burn.'

Dating back to 3600 BCE in India and 2000 BCE in China, incense has deep connections to spirituality and religious practices. In Greek traditions, burning incense was believed to establish a communication channel with deities. Many cultures across the world share the belief that incense helps carry prayers directly to the spiritual realm.

While incense holds significant importance in Hinduism, Buddhism, and is permitted in Islam, many wonder about its role in Christianity. Is burning incense considered a sin according to the Bible? Can Christians incorporate this practice into their worship? This article examines Biblical references to provide clarity on these questions.

Can Christians Burn Incense?

Throughout Christian history, incense has been used in various denominations, including the Roman Catholic Church, Lutheran Churches, and some Anglican traditions. According to "The United Methodist Book of Worship," Evening Praise specifically calls for incense usage. The rising smoke from burning incense symbolizes the "prayers of the faithful ascending to heaven" – a concept illustrated in the 141st Psalm.

In Exodus 30:34-37, the LORD provides Moses with specific instructions for incense composition. The "Revelation of John" draws a parallel between burning incense and the "prayers" and "saints of heaven," serving as one of the Bible's essential references to incense.

Is Burning Incense Considered a Sin?

Today, most Christian denominations don't consider incense essential to worship, though Roman Catholics continue to incorporate it in various rituals.

According to Malachi 1:11, the Bible warns against burning incense as an offering to false gods – it should be offered only to the true God. For most Christians, using incense is a matter of personal conviction rather than religious obligation.

The Holy Bible does outline specific protocols for burning incense. In the Old Testament, only a High Priest could burn incense at the Altar of Incense (Exodus 30) within the "Holy Place of Tabernacle." Unauthorized incense was strictly prohibited.

According to Exodus 30:7-8, priests were instructed to burn incense only in the morning and evening at the designated Altar of Incense. The Bible contains numerous references to this practice throughout its text.

Biblical Significance of Burning Incense

In the Old Testament, incense was considered symbolic of "a greater reality." Psalm 141:2 states, "Let my prayer be accepted as sweet-smelling incense in your presence. Let the lifting up of my hands in prayer be accepted as an evening sacrifice." While literal mentions may be limited, the symbolism of incense is evident throughout Biblical text.

One of the gifts brought to Jesus by the Magi was frankincense, symbolizing the "Holy Priesthood of Jesus." This underscores the significance of incense in Christian tradition.

The Bible contains multiple verses referencing incense, including Luke 1:10, Isaiah 66:2, Ephesians 5:1-2, and Psalm 51:16-17. The New Testament features several such references, though they appear more frequently in the Old Testament.

Deuteronomy 33:10 states: "They shall teach Your ordinances to Jacob, and Your law to Israel. They shall put incense before you, and whole burnt offerings on your altar." As part of the Old Testament, the Book of Deuteronomy contains many references to incense, which explains why the practice is more common among Jewish traditions than Christian ones.

In Catholicism, incense remains an important element even during funeral Masses.

Note: Unlike Catholic Churches, Evangelical Churches typically avoid burning incense, partly due to its historical association with sacrificial practices.

How Christians Use Incense in Prayer

Christians (particularly Catholics) incorporate incense in numerous religious events. It may be burned during Holy Communion, Solemn Vespers, funerals, and various church celebrations.

Some churches use incense at every service, including with the Paschal Candle. Frankincense is the most common ingredient in Catholic tradition, with numerous Biblical references supporting its use. Some denominations also use myrrh.

Many Christian denominations use incense not as a religious requirement but as an enhancement to worship services. There are no strict rules regarding praying with incense in Christianity – practices vary by denomination and individual congregation.

Incense as a Modern Lifestyle Practice

Christianity does not prohibit burning incense. Instead, its use largely depends on individual belief systems. Most Catholics burn incense during festivals, celebrations, and Sunday services.

Different religions attribute various meanings to the number of incense sticks burned. In modern times, incense is used not only for religious purposes but also for its mood-enhancing properties. Today, incense serves both spiritual and secular purposes, with many people enjoying it simply for its aromatic qualities.

Understanding the Bible's Position on Burning Incense

Incense has deep connections to spirituality across numerous cultures. Ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, Greeks, Indians, and Chinese all incorporated incense into their religious practices – a tradition that continues in many cultures today.

Common ingredients in incense include frankincense, copal, myrrh, lemon, and various other aromatic substances.

Unlike Hinduism or Buddhism, where incense plays a central role in worship, most Christian denominations do not consider it essential. However, the Bible does not condemn the practice as sinful. This balanced perspective represents the Bible's position on burning incense – neither mandatory nor forbidden, but available as a meaningful element of worship for those who choose to incorporate it.