Altar (Bible)

An altar, in a biblical context, is a structure upon which sacrifices were offered to a deity. Altars played a significant role in the religious practices of the ancient Israelites and other cultures mentioned in the Bible. They served as a focal point for communication with God, a place for atonement, and a symbol of covenant.

Types of Altars:

• Earthen Altars: Early altars were often simple mounds of earth, permissible according to the Law of Moses (Exodus 20:24). These were readily constructed wherever God manifested himself.
• Stone Altars: Altars made of uncut stones were also permitted (Exodus 20:25). The use of uncut stones was intended to prevent the altar from being defiled by human tools.
• Bronze Altar: A large bronze altar stood in the courtyard of the Tabernacle and later in the Temple in Jerusalem. It was used for burnt offerings and other sacrifices.
• Golden Altar (Altar of Incense): This altar stood inside the Holy Place of the Tabernacle and the Temple. It was used exclusively for burning incense.

Purpose and Significance:

• Sacrifice: Altars were primarily used for offering sacrifices, including burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and trespass offerings. These sacrifices were intended to appease God, atone for sins, and express gratitude.
• Worship and Prayer: Altars were places of worship and prayer. Individuals would often approach the altar to seek God's favor or guidance.
• Covenant: Altars were sometimes erected as memorials to commemorate covenants between God and his people, such as the altar built by Jacob (Genesis 35:1-7).
• Refuge: In some cases, the altar served as a place of refuge for those seeking asylum from punishment, although this was not always respected (1 Kings 1:50-53; 2:28-34).

Examples in the Bible:

• Noah: Built an altar after the flood (Genesis 8:20).
• Abraham: Built altars at various locations as he journeyed through Canaan (Genesis 12:7-8; 13:18; 22:9).
• Moses: Constructed the Tabernacle altar according to God's instructions (Exodus 27:1-8).
• Elijah: Rebuilt an altar on Mount Carmel to demonstrate God's power (1 Kings 18:30-39).

Symbolic Significance in the New Testament:

In the New Testament, the concept of the altar shifts. While physical altars are still mentioned in connection with Jewish practices, the emphasis moves towards spiritual sacrifice. Jesus Christ is presented as the ultimate sacrifice, and Christians are called to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). The altar can thus be seen as a symbol of dedication, surrender, and communion with God. The Lord's Supper, or Eucharist, is also often understood in relation to the sacrificial themes associated with the altar.