Topical Bible: Copper Brass: Made Into: Altars

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Copper, often referred to as brass in biblical contexts, holds significant importance in the construction of sacred objects, particularly altars, within the tabernacle and temple settings. The use of copper in these holy structures underscores its symbolic and practical value in ancient Israelite worship.

Biblical References and Description

The use of copper in the construction of altars is prominently mentioned in the Old Testament. In Exodus 27:1-2, God provides Moses with specific instructions for building the altar of burnt offering: "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. Make a horn at each of the four corners, so that the horns are of one piece with the altar, and overlay it with bronze."

This altar, situated in the courtyard of the tabernacle, was central to the sacrificial system, serving as the place where offerings were made to God. The overlay of bronze, a copper alloy, was not merely decorative but served a functional purpose, providing durability and resistance to the intense heat of the sacrifices.

Symbolic Significance

The use of copper in the altar's construction carries deep symbolic meaning. Copper, known for its strength and resilience, represents judgment and endurance. The altar, as a place of sacrifice, was where the Israelites sought atonement for their sins, and the copper overlay symbolized the enduring nature of God's justice and mercy.

Furthermore, the altar's horns, also overlaid with copper, were significant in the ritual practices of ancient Israel. They were often associated with the power and presence of God, serving as a place of refuge and asylum, as seen in passages like 1 Kings 1:50, where Adonijah seeks sanctuary by grasping the horns of the altar.

Craftsmanship and Artistry

The craftsmanship involved in creating the copper altar was a testament to the skill and artistry of the Israelite artisans. Exodus 31:2-5 highlights the divine inspiration given to Bezalel, the chief artisan, who was filled with "the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship, to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze."

The meticulous work in overlaying the altar with copper not only fulfilled God's commandments but also reflected the beauty and sanctity of the worship space. The artisans' dedication to their craft was an act of worship in itself, honoring God through their skillful work.

Historical Context

In the broader historical context, copper was a valuable resource in the ancient Near East, widely used for various tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects. Its availability and utility made it a practical choice for constructing durable and functional religious artifacts.

The use of copper in the tabernacle and later in Solomon's Temple, as described in 1 Kings 7:45-47, where "the pots, shovels, and sprinkling bowls" were made of bronze, further emphasizes its importance in Israelite worship practices. The extensive use of copper in these sacred spaces highlights its role in facilitating the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Conclusion

The use of copper in the construction of altars in the biblical narrative is a profound testament to its symbolic and practical significance. As a material chosen by divine command, copper served not only as a functional element in the sacrificial system but also as a symbol of God's enduring justice and mercy. Through the skilled craftsmanship of the Israelite artisans, the copper altar became a central fixture in the worship life of ancient Israel, reflecting the beauty and sanctity of their covenant relationship with God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 27:2
And you shall make the horns of it on the four corners thereof: his horns shall be of the same: and you shall overlay it with brass.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 39:39
The brazen altar, and his grate of brass, his staves, and all his vessels, the laver and his foot,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Whether this Sacrament Ought to be Celebrated in a House and with ...
... But it is not to be made of brass, or copper, because the action of the
wine thereon produces verdigris, and provokes vomiting. ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether this sacrament ought to 2.htm

The Absurdity and Impiety of the Heathen Mysteries and Fables ...
... caldron, or the Cirrh??an tripod, or the Dodonian copper. ... another, taking an image
of Hercules made of wood ... practiced the art of working in brass, maimed in ...
/.../clement/exhortation to the heathen/chapter ii the absurdity and impiety.htm

The Rise of the Assyrian Empire
... the Achaean coast itself, Tamassos near the copper-mines, and ... while the rest either
fell gradually into the hands ... for the good fortune which had made them see ...
/.../chapter iithe rise of the.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... The mountains contained copper, iron, lead, some gold and ... The barbarians made a brave
resistance, in spite of the ... Iranian legends wove into the theme of their ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

The Iranian Conquest
... is not so certain as it is made out to ... These adepts were divided into several classes,
of which ... of perfect purity in their persons, their altars, their victims ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... should be transposed, to bring the verse into harmony with ... whom were added a body
of charioteers made up of ... scale mail and the helmet of brass; their weapons ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm