מִקְטָר
something to fume (incense) on i.e. a hearth place
Definition
The noun מִקְטָר (miqṭâr) refers specifically to a hearth or altar for burning incense. It denotes the place or object upon which incense is fumed, as seen in its sole biblical occurrence in Exodus 30:1, where God instructs Moses to build an altar for burning incense. This term is closely tied to the ritual act of offering fragrant smoke to God. Unlike more general terms for altar, מִקְטָר emphasizes the function of incense offering.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Exodus 30:1, within the context of God giving Moses detailed instructions for constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings. It specifies the purpose of the golden altar: 'You shall make an altar to burn incense upon.' Its usage is exclusively cultic, related to priestly worship in the sanctuary.
Etymology
מִקְטָר is a derivative noun from the root קָטַר (qāṭar, H6999), which means 'to make sacrificial smoke,' 'to burn incense,' or 'to offer up in smoke.' The noun form indicates the instrument or place for that action. Cognate words in related Semitic languages also carry meanings associated with burning or smoking sacrifices.
Semantic Range
Though used only once, this word is theologically significant as it identifies the specific altar for the perpetual incense offering (Exodus 30:7-8), a central act of Israel's worship. The incense altar symbolized the prayers of God's people ascending to Him (Psalm 141:2, Revelation 8:3-4). Understanding this term highlights the holiness, precision, and intercessory nature of the priestly system that points toward Christ's perfect mediation.
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, including Israel, burning incense was a common religious practice. The מִקְטָר was not a common fireplace but a sacred, dedicated altar, often made of precious materials like gold (Exodus 30:3). Its singular mention for the Tabernacle's golden altar underscores its unique, divinely appointed role, distinguishing it from any secular or pagan incense stands.
מִזְבֵּחַ (mizbēaḥ, H4196) — a general term for 'altar,' used for various sacrifices, not exclusively incense. כִּיּוֹר (kîyôr, H3595) — a 'basin' or 'laver,' another Tabernacle furnishing but for washing, not burning.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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