Altar-hearths, in the context of biblical literature, refer to the flat surfaces or platforms on which sacrifices were offered to God. These structures are integral to the understanding of worship practices in ancient Israel and are mentioned in various passages throughout the Bible. The altar-hearth served as the focal point of sacrificial rituals, symbolizing the place where offerings were made to God, and where divine-human interaction was most vividly expressed.

Biblical References and Description

The concept of the altar-hearth is most explicitly detailed in the book of Ezekiel, particularly in the vision of the new temple. Ezekiel 43:15-16 states, "The altar hearth shall be four cubits high, and four horns shall project upward from the hearth. The altar hearth shall be square at its four corners, twelve cubits long and twelve cubits wide." This description highlights the altar-hearth as a significant and sacred space, meticulously designed according to divine specifications.

The altar-hearth is also associated with the "altar of burnt offering," which was a central feature in the tabernacle and later in the temple. In Leviticus, the altar is described as the place where burnt offerings were made, and the fire on the altar was to be kept burning continually (Leviticus 6:12-13). This perpetual fire symbolized the ongoing presence of God and the continuous need for atonement and worship.

Symbolism and Theological Significance

The altar-hearth holds profound theological significance in the biblical narrative. It represents the meeting point between the divine and the human, where sacrifices were made to atone for sin and to express devotion to God. The fire on the altar, which was never to be extinguished, symbolizes God's eternal presence and the perpetual nature of worship and sacrifice.

In the broader biblical context, the altar-hearth can be seen as a precursor to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The sacrifices offered on the altar foreshadow the atoning work of Christ, who is described in the New Testament as the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29). Thus, the altar-hearth serves as a typological element pointing to the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Christ.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, altars were common in religious practices, serving as places where offerings were made to various deities. However, the altar-hearth in Israelite worship was distinct in its exclusive dedication to Yahweh, the God of Israel. The construction and use of the altar were governed by specific divine instructions, emphasizing the holiness and separateness of Israel's worship practices.

The altar-hearth's design, with its horns and specific dimensions, also reflects the broader cultural and religious milieu of the time, where altars often had symbolic elements representing strength and protection. The horns of the altar, for instance, were sometimes seen as a place of refuge, as seen in passages like 1 Kings 1:50, where Adonijah seeks asylum by grasping the horns of the altar.

Conclusion

The altar-hearth is a vital component of biblical worship, rich in symbolism and theological depth. It underscores the importance of sacrifice in the relationship between God and His people and serves as a powerful symbol of atonement and divine presence. Through its detailed descriptions and prescribed use, the altar-hearth reflects the holiness and orderliness of worship as ordained by God, pointing ultimately to the redemptive work of Christ.Altar-hearths (2 Occurrences)

2 Samuel 23:20
And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel, who had done mighty deeds, he slew the two'sons of Ariel of Moab: he went down also and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow.
(See JPS)

1 Chronicles 11:22
Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel, who had done mighty deeds, he slew the two'sons of Ariel of Moab: he went down also and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow.
(See JPS)

Altar-hearths (2 Occurrences)
Altar-hearths. Altar, Altar-hearths. Altars . Multi-Version
Concordance Altar-hearths (2 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 23:20 ...
/a/altar-hearths.htm - 7k

Moab's (7 Occurrences)
... 2 Samuel 23:20 And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel,
who had done mighty deeds, he smote the two altar-hearths of Moab; he went ...
/m/moab's.htm - 8k

Benai'ah (43 Occurrences)
... 2 Samuel 23:20 And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel,
who had done mighty deeds, he smote the two altar-hearths of Moab; he went ...
/b/benai'ah.htm - 18k

Jehoi'ada (50 Occurrences)
... 2 Samuel 23:20 And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel,
who had done mighty deeds, he smote the two altar-hearths of Moab; he went ...
/j/jehoi'ada.htm - 21k

Kerioth (4 Occurrences)
... Here was a sanctuary of Chemosh, to which Mesha says (MS, l. 13) he dragged "the
altarhearths of Davdoh." It may possibly be represented by the modern Kuraiat ...
/k/kerioth.htm - 9k

Altars (55 Occurrences)

/a/altars.htm - 25k

Middle (169 Occurrences)
... 2 Samuel 23:20 And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel,
who had done mighty deeds, he smote the two altar-hearths of Moab; he went ...
/m/middle.htm - 45k

Altar (343 Occurrences)

/a/altar.htm - 78k

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