Exodus 35:15 (KJV)

What does Exodus 35:15 mean?

Exodus 35:15 lists several items connected to the tabernacle: the altar for burning incense, its carrying poles, the anointing oil, the fragrant incense, and the curtain that covers the entrance. This verse is part of a detailed inventory of what is needed for the tabernacle’s service and setup.

In this passage, Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they prepare to build the tabernacle, the portable sanctuary for worship during their journey in the wilderness. The verse highlights specific objects that play a role in worship and in marking off sacred space, showing the care and order involved in Israel’s worship practices.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 35:15

• The word for "incense" (קְטֹרֶת, qetoret) refers to a special blend of spices burned as an offering, symbolizing prayers rising to God. Its mention here points to the importance of ritual fragrance in worship.
• "Altar" (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach) is the structure for burning incense, distinct from the altar for animal sacrifices. This distinction shows the variety of worship practices in the tabernacle.
• "Staves" (בַּד, bad) are the poles used to carry the altar, emphasizing that all items had to be portable for travel.
• "Anointing" (מִשְׁחָה, mishchah) and "oil" (שֶׁמֶן, shemen) refer to the consecrated oil used to set apart people and objects for God’s service, underlining the idea of holiness.

Why Exodus 35:15 matters

• This verse helps clarify that every object in the tabernacle had a specific purpose and was treated with care, not just the larger or more obvious items.
• By listing the incense altar and its accessories separately, the verse shows the detailed organization of Israel’s worship and the importance of following God’s instructions exactly.
• The mention of the curtain for the entrance reminds readers that access to the tabernacle was controlled and sacred, reinforcing the idea of separation between the holy and the ordinary.