Antonio Mcgowan
The thurible, derived from the Latin word 'thuribulum', is a vessel used in Christian liturgy to burn incense on lighted coals. The use of incense in Christianity is inspired by passages in the Bible, with its use in prayer and worship carrying a symbolic meaning. When lighting incense in a thurible, it is important to prioritise safety and treat the thurible with care. Charcoal is lit in or near the sacristy, and a fire extinguisher and water must be kept nearby. Incense is then placed on the charcoal, melting to produce a sweet-smelling smoke. To avoid a pungent odour, the incense can be placed on aluminium foil surrounding the coals, rather than directly on the coals.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is a thurible? | A vessel used in the Christian liturgy for the burning of aromatic incense strewn on lighted coals. |
| History | The use of incense in Christianity is inspired by passages in the Bible. The earliest evidence of the thurible in Christian usage is found in the 4th century, when the Roman emperor Constantine is said to have donated several to the Church of San Giovanni in Laterano (St. John Lateran) in Rome. |
| Use | Incense is placed on the charcoal, where it melts to produce a sweet-smelling smoke. This may be done several times during the service as the incense burns quite quickly. |
| Thurible components | A censer section, chains (typically three or four, although single-chain thuribles also exist), a metal ring around the chains (used to lock the lid of the censer section in place), and usually (although not always) a removable metal crucible in which the burning charcoals are placed. |
| Safety | A fire extinguisher and water must be at hand when lighting coals. Lit coals and matches must always be extinguished in a bucket of water. |
| Incense types | Damascus Rose, Orange Blossom, and Svir. |
| Charcoal lighting | Charcoal can be lit using a lighter or by placing a new charcoal top-down on an old, remaining lump of charcoal. |
| Incense quantity | 2-3 teaspoons of incense is recommended to start. |
| Incense placement | Placing the incense on aluminium foil surrounding the coals, rather than directly on the coals, can help prevent a harsh smoke. |
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Safety precautions
Lighting incense in a thurible requires careful handling and attention to safety. Here are some crucial safety precautions to follow when lighting incense in a thurible:
- Fire Safety Equipment: Always have a fire extinguisher and a bucket of water nearby when lighting charcoal or incense. This is essential for quickly addressing any accidental fires.
- Safe Handling: Treat the thurible with care, especially when it contains live coals. Consistent cautious handling will help prevent injuries.
- Well-Ventilated Space: Burn incense in a well-ventilated area. Keep a window slightly open to ensure adequate airflow and reduce the concentration of smoke.
- Stable and Secure Placement: Always place the thurible on a stable surface, away from the flow of traffic and flammable objects. This reduces the risk of accidental contact or knocking over.
- Avoid Flammable Objects: Keep the incense away from flammable items such as curtains, towels, clothes, alcohol, hairspray, and aerosols. These can easily catch fire or produce dangerous fumes when burned.
- No Unattended Incense: Never leave burning incense unattended. Always extinguish it properly before leaving the room. Bending the stick until it snaps or dipping it in water or sand can extinguish it.
- Ash Management: Use an appropriate incense holder or burner that can catch the ash produced. Place a ceramic dish or plate underneath to collect any falling ash and prevent it from landing on flammable surfaces.
- Avoid Blowing: Avoid blowing out the incense like a candle. Blowing can disperse burning embers, increasing the risk of fire.
- Children and Pet Safety: Keep burning incense away from children and pets. Curious children and playful pets may accidentally knock over burning incense or come into contact with it, posing a risk of injury or fire.
- Health Precautions: Do not intentionally breathe in incense smoke. Consult a medical professional if you have underlying health conditions that may be affected by incense smoke.
- Oxygen Supply: Ensure adequate oxygen supply for the incense to burn effectively. Keep the thurible open, especially when not in use, to maintain a constant supply of oxygen and prevent the fire from dying out.
Remember, safety should always come first when working with fire and incense. By following these precautions, you can confidently enjoy the fragrance of incense while minimizing potential risks.
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Charcoal preparation
Firstly, always prioritise safety. Charcoal burning can pose fire hazards, so it is recommended to have a fire extinguisher and a bucket of water nearby. Treat the thurible with care and respect to prevent any accidents or injuries.
When preparing the charcoal, it is advisable to start early and not wait until the last minute. Light the charcoal 10 to 30 minutes before the service begins. This allows sufficient time for the charcoal to ignite and burn evenly, reducing the risk of unpleasant odours or excessive smoke.
The type of charcoal and ignition method can also impact the quality of burning. Some individuals prefer self-lighting charcoals, which are convenient and quick to light. However, these charcoals may contain saltpetre and sulphur, which can contribute to a noxious smell. If you opt for traditional charcoal, you can use a bunsen burner by an open window or employ the old-fashioned method of using newspaper in a chimney starter, similar to lighting a grill.
To ensure optimal burning, consider the oxygen supply. Keep the thurible open when not in use to maintain airflow and blow gently on the charcoal if needed. Additionally, be mindful of the amount and type of incense you place on the charcoal. Incense in large grain form, such as Damascus Rose, is recommended to reduce the risk of smothering the fire.
Lastly, charcoal management is crucial, especially during long liturgical functions. Monitor the charcoal's condition and add more as necessary. It is also a good practice to keep an extra coal lit to light subsequent batches, ensuring a seamless and continuous burning during the service.
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Incense type
Incense is derived from the Latin word 'thuribulum', which is itself formed from the Ancient Greek word 'thuos', meaning 'sacrifice'. Incense is frequently mentioned in the Hebrew Scriptures, and its use in prayer and worship carries a great deal of Christian symbolism.
There are many different types of incense, including Damascus Rose, Orange Blossom, and Svir. When choosing an incense type, it is important to consider the potential impact on the health of those in the vicinity. Many people are allergic to lighter fluid or fake charcoal, and poorly burning incense can create particulates that irritate allergies. High-quality incense, such as real frankincense, can act as a throat soother.
To avoid a burnt smell, it is recommended to use more incense and to place it around the coals, rather than directly on them. This allows the incense to heat up without creating harsh smoke. Additionally, the type of coal used can impact the smell, as some varieties have a pungent odour that can cause breathing problems.
The type of incense and the amount used can also depend on the specific liturgical context. For example, different types of incense may be used during Advent, Christmastide, and Ordinary Time. The amount of incense placed on the coals may vary depending on whether it is a regular Sunday mass or a special occasion, such as Holy Week.
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Thurible handling
Lighting the Charcoal
It is recommended to light the charcoal in or near the sacristy, ensuring a fire extinguisher is mounted nearby. Light the charcoal 10 to 30 minutes before the service begins. If using incense in powder form, be cautious not to add it to the charcoal too soon, as it may smother the fire. Instead, opt for large grain incense, placing it on the charcoal to melt and produce sweet-smelling smoke. To keep the charcoal burning, gently swing the thurible.
Health and Safety
Be mindful of potential allergies to lighter fluid or fake charcoal. Inadequately burning coals can produce particulates that trigger allergies. Opt for natural incense, such as frankincense, which acts as a throat soother. Always prioritise safety by keeping a fire extinguisher and a bucket of water nearby when lighting coals. Ensure lit coals and matches are extinguished in the bucket of water.
Maintenance and Presentation
To maintain the thurible during use, a boat bearer may carry a boat or container of incense with a small spoon to add grains as needed. Present the thurible to the priest or deacon when they need to use it. After Mass, it is customary to hang the thurible safely using the stand or chains, allowing it to cool down.
Rituals and Symbolism
The use of incense in Christianity is deeply symbolic, inspired by biblical passages. Incense is mentioned in the Hebrew Scriptures and plays a role in prayer and worship. The Roman Missal, revised in 1969, permits the use of incense at any Mass, including during processions, at the beginning of Mass to incense the cross and the altar, and during the Gospel procession and proclamation. The number of swings of the thurible is specified in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal, with three double swings designated for specific objects and persons.
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Incense timing
Incense can be burned at any time of day, depending on your personal preferences and needs. It is commonly used in rituals, prayer and worship, and during quiet moments such as meditation and yoga.
When lighting incense, safety is paramount. Ensure you have a fire extinguisher and water at hand. It is also important to keep the thurible open when not in use to keep the briquette hot. You can blow on it to keep it hot, but be aware that oxygen can be a problem.
The Roman Missal, revised in 1969, allows the use of incense at any Mass. This includes: in the entrance procession; at the beginning of Mass to incense the cross and the altar; at the Gospel procession and proclamation; after the bread and chalice are placed on the altar, to incense the offerings, the cross, the altar, the priest and the people; and at the elevation of the host and the chalice after the consecration.
The burning time of an incense stick varies depending on its length, thickness, and type. A standard-sized incense stick will generally burn for 20 to 40 minutes. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the estimated burning time of the specific type of incense stick you are using.
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Frequently asked questions
A thurible is a vessel used in the Christian liturgy for the burning of aromatic incense strewn on lighted coals.
To light incense in a thurible, you need to place burning charcoal inside the metal censer, either directly into the bowl section or into a removable crucible. Then, place the incense on the charcoal, where it will melt to produce a sweet-smelling smoke.
Lighting incense in a thurible requires careful handling and attention to safety. It is important to ensure proper ventilation and be mindful of any allergies to incense or coals. Keep a fire extinguisher and a bucket of water nearby in case of any accidents.
