What is the meaning of Exodus 35:16? The altar of burnt offering Exodus 35:16 begins by naming “the altar of burnt offering.” In the wilderness tabernacle this was the first object an Israelite met when approaching God (Exodus 27:1-8). Its location in the courtyard underscored that atonement through sacrifice must precede fellowship. Leviticus 1:3-9 spells out how a worshiper placed a hand on the animal, symbolically transferring guilt, and the animal’s blood made “atonement on his behalf” (Leviticus 1:4). Centuries later, Hebrews 9:22 affirms, “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” The altar therefore foreshadows the cross, where “Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as an offering and a fragrant sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:2). Its bronze grate Attached inside the altar was “a grate of bronze network” (Exodus 27:4-5). Bronze, a durable alloy, withstood the heat, signifying judgment that completely consumes sin (Numbers 16:38). The grate held the sacrifice in place, and its four rings enabled priests to insert poles for transport. John 3:14-15 recalls another bronze object—the serpent Moses raised—linking that symbol of judgment and healing to Jesus “lifted up” for our salvation. Its poles “Make poles of acacia wood for the altar and overlay them with bronze; the poles are to be inserted into the rings” (Exodus 27:6-7). God intended His dwelling to move with His people, so every major furnishing had carrying poles (Exodus 25:13-15). The poles remind us that forgiveness is not tied to one geographic spot; instead, God’s means of grace travels with His covenant people. Matthew 28:20, “I am with you always,” echoes that portability. All its utensils Exodus 27:3 lists shovels, basins, meat forks, and firepans—all made of bronze. Each tool supported the offering: removing ashes, sprinkling blood, turning the sacrifice. Hebrews 9:21 notes that under the old covenant “Moses sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle and all the vessels of ministry.” Even the smallest item mattered, showing that every detail of worship must be consecrated (1 Corinthians 10:31). The basin with its stand Beyond sacrifice, cleansing was required. “Make a bronze basin for washing, with its stand, and place it between the tent of meeting and the altar” (Exodus 30:18). Priests washed hands and feet before entering the tent or offering sacrifice “so that they will not die” (Exodus 30:20-21). This prefigures daily spiritual cleansing: Jesus told Peter, “Whoever has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; he is completely clean” (John 13:10). Believers, though fully justified, still need continual washing by “the water of the word” (Ephesians 5:26). summary Exodus 35:16 catalogs the altar, grate, poles, utensils, and basin to spotlight God’s ordered plan for access, atonement, and ongoing cleansing. The altar points to Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice; the bronze grate and utensils illustrate complete judgment on sin; the poles reveal God’s presence moving with His people; the basin calls us to daily purification. Together they announce that holy worship is possible only through God-provided sacrifice and continual cleansing, truths fulfilled perfectly in Jesus. |
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