2 Chronicles 4:1

He made a bronze altar twenty cubits long, twenty cubits wide, and ten cubits high.

Study Bible

He made
This phrase indicates the active involvement of skilled craftsmen under the direction of King Solomon. The Hebrew root for "made" is עָשָׂה (asah), which implies not just creation but also the execution of a divine plan. This reflects the importance of human agency in fulfilling God's purposes, as Solomon's temple was a physical manifestation of Israel's covenant relationship with God.

a bronze altar
The altar, made of bronze, signifies strength and durability. Bronze, a metal alloy of copper and tin, was highly valued in ancient times for its resilience. The altar's material choice underscores the enduring nature of the sacrifices offered to God. In the broader scriptural context, bronze often symbolizes judgment and purification, as seen in the bronze serpent in Numbers 21:9. This altar was central to the sacrificial system, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

twenty cubits long, twenty cubits wide
The dimensions of the altar, being square, emphasize symmetry and balance, reflecting the order and perfection of God's creation. A cubit, approximately 18 inches or 45 centimeters, was a standard unit of measure in ancient Israel. The size of the altar indicates its capacity to accommodate numerous offerings, highlighting the communal aspect of worship and the nation's dedication to God.

and ten cubits high
The height of the altar, significant in its elevation, symbolizes the lifting of sacrifices toward heaven, representing the connection between God and His people. The number ten in biblical numerology often signifies completeness or divine order, suggesting that the altar was perfectly suited for its sacred purpose. This height also required priests to ascend, symbolizing the elevation of human efforts in worship and the need for mediation between God and man.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who was responsible for building the temple in Jerusalem. He was known for his wisdom and wealth, and he undertook the task of constructing the temple as a place for worship and sacrifice to God.

2. The Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where sacrifices were made, and God's presence dwelt. The construction of the temple was a significant event in Israel's history, symbolizing God's covenant with His people.

3. The Bronze Altar
A large altar made of bronze, used for burnt offerings and sacrifices. Its dimensions were significant, indicating its importance in the temple's sacrificial system.

4. Hiram of Tyre
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, Hiram was the craftsman who helped Solomon by providing materials and skilled labor for the temple's construction, including the bronze work.

5. The Sacrificial System
The system of offerings and sacrifices that were central to Israelite worship, symbolizing atonement and dedication to God.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Sacrifice
The bronze altar was central to the sacrificial system, symbolizing the need for atonement and reconciliation with God. In our lives, we must recognize the importance of sacrifice, both in terms of Christ's ultimate sacrifice and our daily sacrifices of praise and obedience.

The Role of Worship in Community
The temple and its altar were focal points for communal worship. Today, the church serves as a place for believers to gather, worship, and encourage one another in faith.

God's Provision and Design
The detailed construction of the altar and temple reflects God's provision and design for worship. We are reminded that God cares about the details of our lives and has a specific plan for each of us.

Continuity and Fulfillment
The altar's role in the temple connects the Old Testament sacrificial system to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ. Understanding this continuity helps us appreciate the depth of God's redemptive plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the bronze altar reflect the importance of sacrifice in the Old Testament, and how does this relate to the sacrifice of Jesus in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the principle of sacrifice into our daily lives as a form of worship and obedience to God?

3. How does the communal aspect of worship at the temple altar inform our understanding of the role of the church today?

4. What does the detailed design and construction of the temple and its furnishings teach us about God's attention to detail and His plans for our lives?

5. How can understanding the continuity between the Old Testament sacrificial system and the New Testament fulfillment in Christ deepen our faith and appreciation for God's redemptive work?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27:1-8
This passage provides the original instructions for the construction of the altar in the tabernacle, which Solomon's altar in the temple was based upon. It highlights the continuity of worship practices from the tabernacle to the temple.

1 Kings 8:22-61
Solomon's dedication of the temple, where he prays and offers sacrifices on the altar, demonstrating its central role in Israel's worship.

Hebrews 9:11-14
This New Testament passage connects the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the fulfillment of the law through Christ's atonement.