The term "altar hearth" refers to the top surface or platform of an altar where sacrifices and offerings were burned in ancient Israelite worship. The altar hearth was a central component of the sacrificial system instituted by God for the Israelites, as described in the Old Testament. It served as the place where the offerings were consumed by fire, symbolizing the people's devotion and atonement for sin.

Biblical References

The concept of the altar hearth is primarily associated with the altar of burnt offering, which was located in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. The altar itself was constructed according to specific divine instructions given to Moses. In Exodus 27:1-8, God provides detailed instructions for building the altar: "You are to construct the altar of acacia wood, five cubits long and five cubits wide; the altar is to be square, and three cubits high" (Exodus 27:1). The altar hearth was the flat top where the fire was kept burning continuously, as commanded in Leviticus 6:12-13: "The fire on the altar must be kept burning; it must not go out. Every morning the priest is to add firewood and arrange the burnt offering on the fire and burn the fat portions of the peace offerings on it. The fire must be kept burning on the altar continually; it must not be extinguished" .

Symbolism and Function

The altar hearth was not merely a functional component but held deep symbolic significance. It represented the meeting place between God and His people, where sacrifices were offered to atone for sin and express worship. The continuous fire on the altar hearth symbolized God's perpetual presence and the ongoing need for atonement and purification. The burning of sacrifices on the altar hearth was a vivid reminder of the cost of sin and the necessity of substitutionary atonement, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Ezekiel's Vision

In Ezekiel's vision of the future Temple, the altar hearth is described with specific measurements and details, emphasizing its importance in the restored worship of God. 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 vision underscores the continuity of the sacrificial system and its fulfillment in the eschatological hope of Israel.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, altars and their hearths were common in various religious practices. However, the Israelite altar hearth was distinct in its monotheistic worship and covenantal relationship with Yahweh. Unlike pagan altars, which often involved idolatrous practices, the altar hearth in Israel was dedicated solely to the worship of the one true God, as prescribed in the Mosaic Law.

Theological Implications

The altar hearth serves as a powerful theological symbol of God's holiness, justice, and mercy. It highlights the seriousness of sin and the necessity of a mediator between God and humanity. The sacrificial system, with the altar hearth at its center, foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself once for all as the perfect atonement for sin. As the author of Hebrews writes, "We have an altar from which those who serve at the tabernacle have no right to eat" (Hebrews 13:10), indicating the fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Christ's redemptive work.

In summary, the altar hearth is a significant element in the biblical narrative, representing the intersection of divine justice and mercy, and pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the redemption of humanity.