Leviticus 16:12 Meaning and Explanation
“And he shall take a censer full of burning coals of fire from off the altar before the LORD, and his hands full of sweet incense beaten small, and bring it within the vail:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Aaron takes burning coals from the altar and fills his hands with finely beaten incense to carry into the Most Holy Place.
The Context of Leviticus 16:12
Preparing the incense and coals to carry into the Most Holy Place.
What Does Leviticus 16:12 Mean?
Aaron's hands are filled with finely beaten sweet incense—a precious substance representing prayer and worship. He carries burning coals from the main altar into the Most Holy Place, where he will ignite the incense before the mercy seat.
The use of both coals and incense creates a cloud of fragrance that rises before the most holy place, preparing the atmosphere for the bloodwork that follows and signifying the people's prayers and devotion ascending to God.
Leviticus 16:12 in the Original Language
ketoreth (קְטֹרֶת), 'incense' — finely beaten, prepared spices burned as an offering, symbolizing prayer rising before God.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 16:12
What does Leviticus 16:12 mean?
Aaron takes burning coals from the altar and fills his hands with finely beaten incense to carry into the Most Holy Place.
What is the context of Leviticus 16:12?
Preparing the incense and coals to carry into the Most Holy Place.