Seder 68: Exodus 30---The Incense Altar and the Census Tax

 The final tabernacle furnishing to be described in Exodus is the incense altar (Ex 30:1-10). Since the description includes special instructions for the priests, it makes sense that discussion of the incense is postponed until after the section on the garments and ordination of the priests.  Some have also observed that the incense altar is used in some rituals in conjunction with the "less holy" altar of burnt offering in the tabernacle courtyard (see Lev 4), and perhaps it is described last for that reason. 

The incense itself is full of symbolic meaning.  It has been seen as symbolizing the presence of God.  It also came to be associated with prayers rising to God (Ps 141:2; Luke 1:9-10).  Moreover, it served as a sort of protective shield for the high priest on the Day of Atonement (Lev 16:12-13).

The next topic in Exodus 30 is a one-time contribution of a half shekel of silver for every man 20 years and older, which would go toward the service of the tabernacle (vv 11-16).  Through this contribution the army of Israel was counted, and every family had a personal stake in the tabernacle.  A census carried a risk that the Israelites would become proud of their numbers, but the contribution directed thanks to God instead.

During the Second Temple period Exodus 30 was invoked to institute an annual half-shekel tax.  Jesus was once asked if he paid the tax (Matt 17:24-27).  He answered with a parable implying that God was not in the business of regularly taxing his people.

The bronze basin, where the priests washed their hands and feet before serving, is described in Exod 30:17-21.  The bronze basin would be made from mirrors, so a priest would see himself---and contemplate his own limitations and God's greatness---each time he used the basin.  

On August 14, 2021, Rob Wilson spoke at Church of the Messiah on the service of the priests.  He noted that the formula for the incense used at the tabernacle (vv 34-38) brought together quite a variety of aromas, just as many types of people come together to pray.