What is the context?
The instructions move from the enclosed tent to the altar used in the courtyard. It is a square structure of acacia boards covered with bronze, with a horn at each corner. Bronze utensils serve the work of handling sacrifices, blood, fire and ashes. Rings and carrying poles allow the altar to move with the sanctuary.
The Hebrew word מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach (miz-BAY-akh), names an altar, a place of sacrifice; it belongs to the word family of slaughtering for sacrifice (Brown–Driver–Briggs; the related verb). This altar’s purpose is bound to the offerings Israel will bring before the LORD.
The structure is hollow, with a bronze grate beneath its ledge and extending halfway up. Moses must follow the pattern shown on the mountain. Leviticus 6:8–13 later describes the priests tending its fire, adding wood and removing ashes. Those repeated duties make the altar an ongoing place of sacrificial service.
How is this passage commonly understood?
The altar is commonly understood as the appointed place for Israel’s sacrifices and, in Christian interpretation, a picture of Christ’s saving death. Wesley connects it with atonement and the acceptance of the people’s service through Christ. Calvin likewise relates the sacrifice to Christ offering Himself through the Spirit, while noting that different offerings involved different portions: not every sacrifice was entirely burned.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Hebrews 7:23–28 explains the greater priesthood and sacrifice of Jesus. He lives permanently to intercede for those who approach God through Him, and His offering of Himself is once for all. The repeated service of the altar belongs to the larger story that reaches its completion in His saving work.
Hebrews 13:10–16 also brings together altar, sacrifice and Jesus’ suffering outside the city gate. It calls believers to go to Him and offer praise, do good and share with others. God’s purpose includes a people whose worship continues in faithful allegiance to Christ and practical generosity.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.