The Incense Altar and the Basin

God told Moses to make an altar to burn incense on, made of acacia wood and covered with pure gold. It was small and square, with horns on its corners. It would stand in front of the veil, near the ark. Aaron would burn sweet incense on it every morning and evening. Once a year he would put blood on its horns to make atonement.

When the people were counted, each person gave half a shekel to the Lord. The rich did not give more and the poor did not give less. This money was used for the service of the Tent of Meeting.

God told Moses to make a basin of bronze for washing. It stood between the tent and the altar. Aaron and his sons would wash their hands and feet before they served, so they would not die. God also gave a recipe for a holy anointing oil made of spices and olive oil. It was used to anoint the tent and the priests. No one could copy it for themselves. The holy incense was also only for God.