Seamus Hammond
Incense has been used in many religious celebrations for thousands of years, and its use in Catholic Mass is steeped in tradition and symbolism. The practice dates back to the early Church, when Jews used incense in their Temple rituals, and it has been noted in the Talmud and mentioned in the Bible 170 times. The smoke from burning incense is thought to symbolise sanctification and purification, as well as the prayers of the faithful rising to God. Incense is used at various points during Mass, including during the entrance procession, at the beginning of Mass, and at the elevation of the Sacred Host. The visual imagery and smell of incense are thought to add a sense of solemnity and mystery to the Mass, reminding worshippers of the transcendence of the Mass and linking heaven and earth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| History | The use of incense in Catholic mass may have been influenced by the Jewish temple worship, which continued after the establishment of Christianity. The earliest documented history of using incense during a Catholic mass comes from the Eastern branch of the Church, dating back to the 5th century. |
| Symbolism | Incense is a symbol of sanctification, purification, and prayer. It represents the connection between earthly life and heaven, with the smoke symbolizing the prayers of the faithful rising up to God. |
| Usage | Incense is used during the entrance procession, at the beginning of mass to incense the altar, during the procession and proclamation of the Gospel, at the offertory to incense the offerings, altar, priest, and people, and during the elevation of the Sacred Host and chalice of Precious Blood. It is also used during funeral masses, Eucharistic Exposition, Benediction, and the Mass of the Feast of the Epiphany. |
| Purpose | Incense adds a sense of solemnity, mystery, and transcendence to the mass. It helps worshippers connect with the eternal reality of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and enter into the presence of God. |
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What You'll Learn
Incense is symbolic of sanctification and purification
The use of incense during Catholic mass is a tradition that dates back centuries. While the exact origins of its incorporation into Catholic liturgy are unknown, it is believed that early Christians adapted the practice from Jewish Temple rituals. Incense has been mentioned in the Bible 170 times and is specifically referenced in the Book of Revelation, where the apostle John writes about the elders holding "gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of the holy ones" (Revelation 5:8).
The sweet fragrance of the incense, along with its smoke, creates a solemn and mysterious atmosphere during mass. It serves as a reminder of the transcendence of the mass, linking Heaven and Earth. The incense also symbolises Christ's Holy Sacrifice, connecting the worshippers to his wounds and his offering of himself as a fragrant sacrifice. This is further emphasised by the practice of blessing frankincense and myrrh during the Mass of the Feast of the Epiphany, commemorating the gifts presented to Baby Jesus by the Biblical Magi.
The use of incense in Catholic mass is more than just a tradition; it holds deep theological significance. It is a powerful symbol that enhances the worship experience, engaging the senses and reminding worshippers of their connection to Heaven and the presence of God.
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It also symbolises the prayers of the faithful
The use of incense during Catholic Mass is steeped in symbolism and ritual. While its exact origins are unknown, incense has been used in religious ceremonies for millennia, dating back to pagan practices. The smoke from burning incense is believed to symbolise sanctification and purification, driving away evil spirits and pleasing the gods.
In a Catholic context, the smoke is also thought to symbolise the prayers of the faithful rising to heaven. This idea is supported by several Bible passages, including Psalm 141, which reads, "Let my prayer come like incense before you; the lifting up of my hands, like the evening sacrifice." (Psalm 141). Similarly, in the Book of Revelation, John writes about the elders offering incense, stating, "the smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of God's people, went up before God from the angel's hand" (Revelation 8:3-4). The use of incense during Mass thus serves as a visual reminder of the connection between earthly worship and the worship of heaven, with the smoke representing the faithful's prayers ascending to God.
During funeral Masses, the priest may incense the coffin, symbolising honour for the deceased and signifying the faithful's prayers for the departed soul's ascension to heaven. The incense's aroma and smoke create a solemn atmosphere, enhancing the sense of mystery and transcendence during the Mass.
The act of burning incense during Catholic Mass is more than just a ritual; it is a symbolic act that connects the faithful to their prayers, to the worship of heaven, and to God. It is a powerful reminder of the divine nature of their worship and a means to create a sacred atmosphere.
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Incense is used at various points during Mass
Entrance Procession
Incense is used during the entrance procession at the beginning of Mass to incense the altar, the cross, and the Gospel Book. This practice connects with Christ's Holy Sacrifice, acknowledging the altar as Christ's Altar of Sacrifice, containing his five wounds, upon which his body and blood will be offered.
Procession and Proclamation of the Gospel
The use of incense during the procession and proclamation of the Gospel is a sign of devotion towards the holy words of and about Christ. Catholics believe that Christ is present in His word, and the rising smoke surrounding the holy book symbolizes the preservation of these words for over 2000 years.
Offertory
During the offertory, incense is used to incense the offerings, altar, priest, and people. This practice symbolizes the purification and sanctification of those participating in the Mass, as well as the offerings being presented.
Elevation of the Sacred Host and Chalice of Precious Blood
At the elevation of the Sacred Host and Chalice of Precious Blood after the consecration, incense is used to emphasize the sacredness of the moment and to create a sense of solemnity.
In addition to these specified moments, priests may also incense the Crucifix and the Paschal Candle. During funeral Masses, the priest may incense the coffin during the final commendation, honoring the deceased and symbolizing the prayers for their soul's ascension.
The use of incense adds visual imagery and a distinct aroma, enhancing the atmosphere of the Mass and engaging the senses of those in attendance. The smoke is believed to symbolize the sanctification and purification of the Mass, as well as the prayers of the faithful rising up to heaven.
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The practice has connections with the Bible and the Old Testament
The use of incense during Catholic Mass has roots in the Bible and the Old Testament. The practice is mentioned in the Old Testament, where the Lord instructed Moses to build a golden altar for burning incense (Exodus 30:1-10). This altar was placed in front of the veil at the entrance of the meeting tent, where the ark of the covenant was kept. The use of incense was also mentioned in the Book of Numbers 7:14 as part of an offering for the dedication of the altar, and in Deuteronomy 33:10, which refers to "the smoke of sacrifice."
Incense has been used in religious rites for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egypt around 2400 B.C. and was also a part of rituals in ancient China, as well as Buddhist, Shinto, and Taoist ceremonies. In the ancient world, incense was believed to have the power to drive away demons and was used for purification and sanctification. The use of incense by the Jews in their Temple rituals continued during the time of the early Church, and Christians likely adapted its usage for their own rituals.
The practice of burning incense during Catholic Mass is also connected to the New Testament. In the Gospel of Luke, Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, is chosen to burn incense in the Temple, and the angel Gabriel foretells the birth of John the Baptist beside the altar of incense (Luke 1:8-11). Additionally, the Wise Men offered incense to the Lord during the Nativity (Matthew 2:11).
The use of incense during Mass is seen as a symbol of sanctification and purification, connecting to the idea of spiritual offering. The smoke of the incense is believed to represent the prayers of the faithful rising up to God, as described in the Book of Revelation. The apostle John writes, "the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each of the elders held a harp and gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of the holy ones" (Revelation 5:8). The use of incense thus adds a sense of solemnity and mystery to the Mass, linking heaven and earth, and allowing worshippers to enter into the presence of God.
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Incense is used at funerals to honour the deceased
Incense has been a part of Catholic worship for centuries, and its use at funerals is steeped in symbolism and ritual. The act of burning incense during Catholic funeral rites serves as a powerful symbol of reverence and honour for the deceased. It also represents the hopeful prayers of the congregation for the soul of the departed.
During a Catholic funeral, the priest typically circles the casket while swinging a thurible, a metal censer holding burning incense. The smoke rising from the incense symbolises the prayers of the faithful ascending to God, invoking His mercy and blessings for the soul of the departed. This ancient ritual provides comfort to the grieving family and signifies that the entire church community is united in prayer for their loved one's eternal rest.
The use of incense during funeral Masses adds a sense of solemnity and mystery. The visual imagery and fragrance of the smoke create a multisensory experience, engaging our senses of sight, smell, and even hearing as the incense burns. This sensory experience helps to enhance the worship and create a deeper connection to the ceremony.
The symbolism of incense in Catholic funerals is deeply rooted in the belief of purification and sanctification. The smoke represents the purification of the soul and the sanctification of the funeral space, creating a sacred atmosphere. This act of incensing the casket is also a sign of honour and respect for the deceased, recognising the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit through baptism.
In some cultures, such as in Singapore, the use of incense in Catholic funerals may incorporate local traditions and rituals. Families may include additional prayers or offerings alongside the burning of incense, honouring both religious and cultural customs. The incense, along with other symbolic items like holy water and crucifixes, provides spiritual comfort and a tangible connection to the deceased's faith and beliefs.
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Frequently asked questions
The incense at Catholic Mass is a symbol of sanctification and purification. It also symbolizes the prayers of the faithful rising to God.
Incense may be used at the entrance procession, at the beginning of Mass to incense the altar, at the procession and proclamation of the Gospel, at the offertory to incense the offerings, altar, priest and people, and at the elevation of the Sacred Host and chalice of Precious Blood after the consecration.
The smoke from the incense symbolizes the transcendence of the Mass, linking heaven and earth, and allowing worshippers to enter into the presence of God. It also adds a sense of solemnity and mystery to the Mass.
Frankincense and myrrh are often blessed at the Mass of the Feast of the Epiphany to commemorate the visitation of the Biblical Magi to Baby Jesus.
