Ezekiel 43:15

The altar hearth shall be four cubits high, and four horns shall project upward from the hearth.

Study Bible

The altar hearth
The term "altar hearth" refers to the top part of the altar where sacrifices were burned. In Hebrew, this is "אֲרִיאֵל" (Ariel), which can also mean "lion of God." This dual meaning suggests strength and divine presence, symbolizing the power and holiness of God. The altar hearth is central to the sacrificial system, representing the place where offerings are made to God, signifying atonement and reconciliation.

shall be four cubits high
The measurement of "four cubits" indicates a specific and divinely ordained size, reflecting God's order and precision. A cubit is approximately 18 inches, making the altar hearth about six feet high. This height signifies the altar's prominence and the importance of the sacrificial system in Israel's worship. The number four often symbolizes completeness and universality in the Bible, suggesting that the altar is sufficient for all sacrifices and for all people.

and four horns
The "four horns" on the altar are significant in biblical symbolism. Horns often represent strength and power. In the context of the altar, they symbolize the power of God to forgive sins and the strength of His covenant with His people. The four horns also point to the four corners of the earth, indicating the universal reach of God's mercy and grace.

shall project upward
The phrase "shall project upward" emphasizes the direction towards heaven, symbolizing the connection between God and humanity. The upward projection of the horns signifies the lifting of prayers and sacrifices to God, representing the hope and aspiration of the people to reach the divine. It also reflects the idea of God's blessings descending from above.

from the hearth
The phrase "from the hearth" indicates the origin of the horns, rooted in the altar hearth itself. This connection underscores the idea that the power and efficacy of the altar come from its divine purpose and design. The hearth, as the place of burning, represents purification and transformation, where offerings are consumed and transformed into a pleasing aroma to God. This transformation is a metaphor for the spiritual renewal and cleansing that comes through sacrifice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book. He receives visions from God, including the vision of the new temple in chapters 40-48.

2. The Altar
Central to the vision in Ezekiel 43, the altar represents the place of sacrifice and worship in the new temple. It symbolizes the restoration of proper worship and relationship with God.

3. The Temple Vision
This vision, given to Ezekiel, outlines a future temple, symbolizing God's presence among His people and the restoration of Israel.

4. The Four Horns
Projecting from the altar hearth, these horns are symbolic of strength and power, often associated with God's protection and the atonement of sin.

5. The Hearth
The top part of the altar where sacrifices are made, representing the heart of worship and the place where offerings are consumed by fire.

Teaching Points

The Centrality of Worship
The altar's design and prominence in the temple vision remind us of the central role of worship in our relationship with God. Worship should be at the heart of our lives, just as the altar is central in the temple.

Symbolism of the Horns
The horns on the altar symbolize God's power and protection. In our lives, we can find strength and refuge in God's presence, knowing He is our protector.

Restoration and Atonement
The altar signifies the restoration of Israel and the atonement for sin. This points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who restores our relationship with God.

Holiness and Reverence
The detailed description of the altar reflects the holiness required in approaching God. We are called to approach God with reverence and purity, acknowledging His holiness.

Future Hope
Ezekiel's vision of the temple and altar provides hope for future restoration and God's abiding presence. We can live with hope, knowing that God is working to restore all things.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the design of the altar in Ezekiel 43:15 reflect the importance of worship in our lives today?

2. In what ways do the horns on the altar symbolize God's power and protection, and how can we apply this understanding to our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of atonement in the Old Testament altar sacrifices point to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

4. What does the detailed description of the altar teach us about the holiness and reverence required in our approach to God?

5. How can Ezekiel's vision of the temple and altar inspire hope and confidence in God's future plans for restoration in our personal lives and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27:1-2
Describes the construction of the altar in the tabernacle, highlighting the importance of the altar in Israel's worship and its design, which includes horns.

Leviticus 16:18
Discusses the use of the altar's horns in the Day of Atonement, emphasizing their role in the atonement process.

Revelation 8:3-5
Connects the altar to the heavenly temple, where the prayers of the saints are offered, showing the continuity of the altar's significance from the Old Testament to the New Testament.