Censer
Incense burns over charcoal in the censer. Clergy cense the Holy Table, icons, and people during the services.
Perspective note
Comparative historical/source study. The original author's or church's reception is retained; inclusion does not make every claim Oriental Orthodox teaching.
Key points
- The rising incense expresses the Church's prayer ascending to God.
- Look for: A metal vessel suspended on chains.
- Illustrated location: Sanctuary / altar area
- Prayer rising like incense (Scripture): Exodus prescribes an incense altar. Psalm 141 likens prayer to incense, and Revelation 8 joins incense with the prayers of the saints. The church censer gives these scriptural images a visible and fragrant expression.
Scripture
- Exodus 30:1–10, 17–21 — Prayer rising like incense: Exodus prescribes an incense altar. Psalm 141 likens prayer to incense, and Revelation 8 joins incense with the prayers of the saints. The church censer gives these scriptural images a visible and fragrant expression.
- Psalm 141:1–2 — Prayer rising like incense: Exodus prescribes an incense altar. Psalm 141 likens prayer to incense, and Revelation 8 joins incense with the prayers of the saints. The church censer gives these scriptural images a visible and fragrant expression.
- Revelation 8:3–4 — Prayer rising like incense: Exodus prescribes an incense altar. Psalm 141 likens prayer to incense, and Revelation 8 joins incense with the prayers of the saints. The church censer gives these scriptural images a visible and fragrant expression.