What defines an altar?

Definition and Origin

An altar is a sacred structure or designated place used in worship, offering, and consecration. The Hebrew term often translated as “altar” is מִזְבֵּחַ (mizbeach), which carries the idea of “place of sacrifice.” From the earliest biblical records, altars were central to the act of honoring, appealing to, or commemorating the work of the Almighty. Such places ranged from simple earthen mounds to more elaborate constructions with hewn or unhewn stones.

Biblical Foundations

Genesis 8:20 records one of the earliest examples: “Then Noah built an altar to the LORD, and taking from every kind of clean animal and clean bird, he offered burnt offerings on the altar.” This moment showcases the primary function of an altar as a place of worshipful sacrifice, symbolizing thanksgiving, dedication, and reverence. Abram (later Abraham) also built altars at crucial points in his journeys (Genesis 12:7; 13:18), signifying a covenant relationship and demonstrating his devotion.

Throughout the Old Testament, altars are frequently mentioned as focal points of communal worship, personal devotion, and divine-human interaction. In Exodus 20:24–25, the construction guidelines are provided: “You are to make for Me an altar of earth… If you make an altar of stones for Me, you must not build it with stones shaped by a tool.” Such instructions underscore the sacredness of the place and the importance of maintaining proper worship.

Materials and Construction

1. Earthen Altars: Simple altars fashioned from packed dirt or clay were encouraged, emphasizing an unpretentious approach to worship (Exodus 20:24).

2. Stone Altars: Stones could be used, but they were to remain uncut or minimally shaped so as not to introduce human pride or idolatrous ornamentation.

3. Bronze and Gold-Covered Altars: In the context of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, more elaborate designs were commanded. For instance, the altar of burnt offering was overlaid with bronze (Exodus 27:1–2), while the altar of incense inside the Holy Place was covered with gold (Exodus 30:1–3).

Purposes and Symbolism

1. Worship and Sacrifice: Altars were primarily connected with offerings and sacrifices, representing humility and dependence on the Almighty. These sacrifices encompassed sin offerings, peace offerings, and burnt offerings – each marking facets of reverence, repentance, or thanksgiving (Leviticus 1–7).

2. Memorial and Commemoration: Often, altars commemorated divine interventions or covenant promises. Jacob erected a stone marker (Genesis 28:18–22), and that place came to be known as Bethel. Such altars reminded future generations of significant encounters with the Divine.

3. Dedication and Consecration: When the Tabernacle was dedicated, an altar was used as part of the ceremony to set it apart for holy service (Leviticus 8:10–11). Similarly, Hezekiah and Josiah, while restoring true worship, focused on cleansing and re-dedicating altars defiled under idolatrous regimes (2 Kings 18; 2 Kings 23).

Diverse Types of Altars in Scripture

1. Patriarchal Altars: Built by figures such as Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to mark encounters with God, express thanksgiving, or entreat divine favor.

2. Altar of Burnt Offering in the Tabernacle (Bronze Altar): Detailed in Exodus 27, serving the nation of Israel located in the courtyard of the Tabernacle.

3. Altar of Incense: Residing in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle, this golden altar (Exodus 30:1–10) was for the daily offering of incense, reflecting prayers ascending to God (cf. Psalm 141:2).

4. Temple Altars: Under Solomon’s reign, the Temple in Jerusalem was built, and both the altar of burnt offering and the altar of incense were incorporated in grander forms (1 Kings 8:64; 1 Kings 9:25).

Altar Practices in the New Testament

Though the sacrificial system was fulfilled in the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ, the concept of an altar persists:

• Spiritualized Sacrifice: Believers are called “to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1). The altar becomes internalized, representing a life yielded to God.

• Reference in Hebrews: “We have an altar from which those who serve at the tabernacle have no right to eat” (Hebrews 13:10). This highlights the spiritual provision found in Christ’s atoning work.

Archaeological Corroboration

Excavations in regions of ancient Israel (such as Tel Arad and other sites dating predominantly to the Iron Age) have uncovered stone altars aligning with biblical descriptions, featuring uncut stones arranged for sacrifices. These findings illustrate the cultural and religious practices consistent with commandments in Exodus and Leviticus.

Philosophical and Behavioral Significance

Altars underscore the human awareness of dependency on the Creator and the innate sense of worship. They serve as tangible reminders that worship involves a dedicated space, whether physical or metaphorical, for acknowledging God’s sovereignty and expressing one’s devotion.

In a broader sense, altars point to the reality of divine-human encounters. The repeated scriptural narrative of building altars emphasizes the compelling need to remember significant moments of provision, revelation, or covenant, shaping both individual devotion and communal identity.

Practical Application

While physical altars are less common in many congregations today, the principle remains: believers are called to cultivate mindful worship, observance of divine grace, and heartfelt gratitude. Regularly “building altars in the heart” can foster reverence, encourage reflection on God’s goodness, and lead to a deeper commitment.

Conclusion

Altars, throughout Scripture, are defined by their role in worship, sacrifice, remembrance, and dedication. Whether fashioned from earth, stone, or overlaid with bronze or gold, their chief goal is to honor the Author of all creation. Rooted in the commands of God and confirmed by historical and archaeological evidence, altars stand as enduring symbols of humanity’s call to worship in spirit, truth, and reverence.