Introduction

In biblical tradition, altars are significant structures used for worship, sacrifice, and communication with God. They serve as sacred spaces where individuals and communities can offer sacrifices, express devotion, and seek divine guidance. The construction and use of altars are detailed throughout the Bible, reflecting their central role in the religious life of the Israelites and early Christians.

Old Testament Altars

1. Patriarchal Altars: The earliest altars mentioned in the Bible are those built by the patriarchs. Noah constructed an altar after the flood to offer burnt offerings to the Lord (Genesis 8:20). Abraham built several altars, including one at Shechem (Genesis 12:7) and another on Mount Moriah, where he was tested with the sacrifice of Isaac (Genesis 22:9). These altars were typically made of earth or uncut stones, as instructed in Exodus 20:24-25: "You are to make an altar of earth for Me and sacrifice on it your burnt offerings and peace offerings, your sheep and goats and cattle. In every place where I cause My name to be remembered, I will come to you and bless you."

2. Mosaic Law and Tabernacle Altars: Under the Mosaic Law, the construction and use of altars became more formalized. The Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary used during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings, contained two primary altars: the Altar of Burnt Offering and the Altar of Incense. The Altar of Burnt Offering, made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, was used for animal sacrifices (Exodus 27:1-8). The Altar of Incense, overlaid with gold, was placed inside the Holy Place and used for burning incense (Exodus 30:1-10).

3. Solomonic Temple Altars: The construction of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem marked a significant development in altar worship. The temple featured a large bronze altar for burnt offerings (2 Chronicles 4:1) and a golden altar for incense (1 Kings 7:48). These altars were central to the temple's sacrificial system, which played a crucial role in Israel's religious life.

New Testament Altars

1. Spiritualization of Altars: In the New Testament, the concept of altars undergoes a transformation. With the coming of Christ, the focus shifts from physical altars to spiritual worship. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is seen as the ultimate offering, rendering the old sacrificial system obsolete. Hebrews 13:10 states, "We have an altar from which those who serve at the tabernacle have no right to eat," emphasizing the spiritual nature of Christian worship.

2. Symbolic and Communal Aspects: The New Testament also highlights the symbolic and communal aspects of altars. In Revelation, the altar is depicted as a place where the prayers of the saints are offered before God (Revelation 8:3-4). This imagery underscores the continued importance of altars as places of prayer and divine interaction.

Theological Significance

Altars in the Bible symbolize the intersection of the divine and human realms. They are places of sacrifice, atonement, and covenant renewal. The construction and use of altars reflect the Israelites' understanding of holiness, obedience, and the need for mediation between God and humanity. In the New Testament, the altar's significance is reinterpreted through the lens of Christ's redemptive work, emphasizing faith, grace, and spiritual worship.

Conclusion

While the physical construction of altars is less emphasized in contemporary Christian practice, the principles they represent—sacrifice, worship, and communion with God—remain central to the faith. The biblical narrative of altars serves as a reminder of the enduring call to worship God in spirit and truth.