Question for catholics

[Rubia Warren]

This question I ask out of curiosity: what is that thing I see them sometimes on tv, with the incense, that the priests wave around? Sorry I don't know what it's called, but what is it, and what is it for?

[Entropic Gnosis]

The swinging incense orb is called a censer. I remember that much from when i was catholic and i think its purpose is purely cerimonial, but about that i am a bit hazy. Incense in general seems to be a common item in many religious systems and i remember thinking when i was small that it might represent the incense that was given to Christ by the magi.

[dublczek]

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/03519c.htm

[Bill Hogue]

The Censer is used now to symbolize our prayers rising to God. The custom (tradition) began in the Middle Ages when people didn't bathe and smelled so bad that no one could take being cooped up in large groups close to each other, especially in the summertime. The censer was used to mask the smell of very bad B.O. at Mass, and developed into a Tradition.

Additioinally, since Catholicism has deep Judaic roots the Censer and incense can be considered to be symbolic of the "Shekanah", the Presence (like a cloud) that existed at the Holy of Holies in the Temple at Jerusalem, believed by some to be the Holy Spirit. Anytime there is a reference to clouds and smoke there is also a symbolism of prayers and the Holy Spirit.

But the custom of incensing began as a way to neutralize the smell of people with incredibly bad body odor...do to poor hygiene. The custom of Spreading flower petals at a wedding comes from the same reason.