Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of burning incense in the Tabernacle?
A: The burning of incense (ketoret) in the Tabernacle was a sacred act of service to Hashem, symbolizing prayer and devotion. The Talmud (Berachot 43b) teaches that the incense offering atones for sins and brings spiritual elevation. Rashi (Exodus 30:1) explains that the incense altar was specifically designated for this purpose, showing its importance in connecting with Hashem.
Q: Why does the verse emphasize that Moshe did 'as Hashem commanded'?
A: The Torah highlights that Moshe followed Hashem's command precisely to teach us the importance of fulfilling mitzvot exactly as instructed. Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 1:1) explains that every detail of the Tabernacle service had to be performed according to divine instruction, showing our complete submission to Hashem's will.
Q: What can we learn from this verse about serving Hashem today?
A: This verse teaches us that serving Hashem requires both action (burning the incense) and intention (following His command). The Midrash (Tanchuma Tetzaveh 15) compares the incense to good deeds done with pure motivation. Today, even without the Temple, we apply this lesson by performing mitzvot with both proper action and proper intent.
Q: What was special about the 'sweet incense' mentioned in this verse?
A: The 'ketoret samim' (sweet incense) was a unique blend of 11 spices specified in Exodus 30:34-38. The Talmud (Keritot 6b) discusses its special formula and explains that it had a pleasant fragrance, symbolizing how mitzvot should be pleasing to Hashem. Rashi (Exodus 30:34) notes that this specific mixture was only used for the Tabernacle and Temple service.
Q: Why is this verse about the incense important in Jewish tradition?
A: This verse is important because it establishes the ongoing mitzvah of the incense offering, which was central to the Temple service. The Rambam (Sefer HaMitzvot, Positive Commandment 39) counts this as one of the 613 mitzvot. Additionally, we recite descriptions of the incense service daily in our prayers (Pesukei D'Zimra) to remember the Temple service and inspire our own devotion to Hashem.
The Significance of the Incense Offering
The verse describes Aharon's fulfillment of the commandment to burn the ketoret samim (sweet incense) on the golden altar, as Hashem had commanded Moshe. This act holds deep spiritual significance in Jewish tradition.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Shemot 30:34) emphasizes that the incense was composed of specific, precisely measured ingredients, as detailed in the Torah. The meticulous preparation teaches us that divine service requires exactness and attention to detail. The phrase "ka'asher tzivah Hashem et Moshe" ("as the Lord commanded Moshe") underscores that Aharon performed this mitzvah exactly according to the divine instructions, without deviation.
Symbolism of the Ketoret
The Talmud (Keritot 6b) teaches that the incense atoned for the sin of lashon hara (evil speech). Just as the incense's fragrance rises upward, so too should our words be elevated and pure. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 43:7) further explains that the ketoret symbolizes unity among the Jewish people, as its various ingredients must be blended harmoniously.
Rambam's Perspective
In Moreh Nevuchim (3:45), Rambam suggests that the incense service was designed to create an atmosphere of reverence in the Mishkan, helping worshippers focus their minds on divine service. The pleasant fragrance served both a physical and spiritual purpose in the sacred space.
Practical Halachic Implications