◄ Exodus 27 ►
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The Bronze Altar (Exodus 38:1–7) 1“You are to build an altar of acacia wood. The altar must be square, five cubits long, five cubits wide, and three cubits high.a 2Make a horn on each of its four corners, so that the horns are of one piece, and overlay it with bronze. 3Make all its utensils of bronze—its pots for removing ashes, its shovels, its sprinkling bowls, its meat forks, and its firepans. 4Construct for it a grate of bronze mesh, and make a bronze ring at each of the four corners of the mesh. 5Set the grate beneath the ledge of the altar, so that the mesh comes halfway up the altar. 6Additionally, make poles of acacia wood for the altar and overlay them with bronze. 7The poles are to be inserted into the rings so that the poles are on two sides of the altar when it is carried. 8Construct the altar with boards so that it is hollow. It is to be made just as you were shown on the mountain. The Courtyard (Exodus 38:9–20) 9You are also to make a courtyard for the tabernacle. On the south side of the courtyard make curtains of finely spun linen, a hundred cubits longb on one side, 10with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases, and silver hooks and bands on the posts. 11Likewise there are to be curtains on the north side, a hundred cubits long, with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases, and with silver hooks and bands on the posts. 12The curtains on the west side of the courtyard shall be fifty cubits wide,c with ten posts and ten bases. 13The east side of the courtyard, toward the sunrise, is to be fifty cubits wide. 14Make the curtains on one side fifteen cubits long,d with three posts and three bases, 15and the curtains on the other side fifteen cubits long, with three posts and three bases. 16The gate of the courtyard shall be twenty cubits long,e with a curtain embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen. It shall have four posts and four bases. 17All the posts around the courtyard shall have silver bands, silver hooks, and bronze bases. 18The entire courtyard shall be a hundred cubits long and fifty cubits wide,f with curtains of finely spun linen five cubits high,g and with bronze bases. 19All the utensils of the tabernacle for every use, including all its tent pegs and the tent pegs of the courtyard, shall be made of bronze. The Oil for the Lamps (Leviticus 24:1–4) 20And you are to command the Israelites to bring you pure oil of pressed olives for the light, to keep the lamps burning continually. 21In the Tent of Meeting, outside the veil that is in front of the Testimony,h Aaron and his sons are to tend the lamps before the LORD from evening until morning. This is to be a permanent statute for the Israelites for the generations to come. Footnotes: 1 a The altar was approximately 7.5 feet in length and width, and 4.5 feet high (2.3 meters in length and width, and 1.4 meters high). 9 b 100 cubits is approximately 150 feet or 45.7 meters; also in verse 11. 12 c 50 cubits is approximately 75 feet or 22.9 meters; also in verse 13. 14 d 15 cubits is approximately 22.5 feet or 6.9 meters; also in verse 15. 16 e 20 cubits is approximately 30 feet or 9.1 meters. 18 f The courtyard was approximately 150 feet long and 75 feet wide (45.7 meters long and 22.9 meters wide). 18 g 5 cubits is approximately 7.5 feet or 2.3 meters. 21 h The Testimony refers to the stone tablets in the ark of the covenant inscribed with the Ten Commandments. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Exodus 27 Summary The Bronze Altar, Courtyard, and Oil Verses 1–8 – The Bronze Altar The chapter opens with detailed instructions for a square altar made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze. Measuring five cubits (7½ ft / 2.3 m) per side and three cubits (4½ ft / 1.4 m) high, it features four horns at its corners, bronze rings for carrying poles, and a bronze grate set “halfway down the altar” (v.5). Portable and durable, the altar will stand in the tabernacle court as the main place where burnt offerings are consumed by fire. Verses 9–19 – The Courtyard of the Tabernacle A rectangular courtyard is to be enclosed by hangings of finely twisted linen—100 cubits (150 ft / 45 m) long on north and south, 50 cubits (75 ft / 22.5 m) on east and west. Sixty bronze–capped pillars with silver bands support the fabric. The east side has a 20–cubits-wide entrance curtain woven in blue, purple, and scarlet with embroidery. All utensils, tent pegs, and fittings are bronze, suitable for life in the wilderness. Verses 20–21 – Oil for the Lamp and Priestly Duty Israel is to bring “clear oil of pressed olives for the light” so the golden lampstand inside the tent burns “continually from evening until morning” (v.20). Aaron and his sons must keep this perpetual flame in the Holy Place “a statute forever for the Israelites” (v.21). In this chapter, God delivers precise instructions for crafting the altar and courtyard of the tabernacle. The divine guidelines indicate not only the physical structure but also represent the sacredness of the spaces where God's presence dwells. The meticulous instructions extend to the continual burning of the lamps, affirming God's everlasting presence. The Bronze Altar: Structure, Function, and Meaning • Size and shape: a perfect square points to balance and completeness. • Horns: extensions of the altar’s corners (see Psalm 118:27) signifying refuge and strength; fugitives later cling to them for mercy (1 Kings 1:50). • Bronze overlay: a metal of judgment (cf. Deuteronomy 28:23) able to withstand heat, matching the altar’s role in consuming sacrifices. • Grate and rings: practical engineering for airflow and portability, underscoring that worship travels with God’s people. Acacia Wood and Bronze: Durability with Purpose Acacia, common in the Sinai, is hard, resinous, and resistant to insects—ideal for a mobile sanctuary. Overlaying it with bronze unites the earthly (wood) and the heavenly justice (metal) as offerings bridge humanity and God. Horns of the Altar The four horns align with the four directions, hinting that atonement is available to all who will come. Blood placed on the horns during sin offerings (Leviticus 4:7) marks them as the focal point of substitutionary sacrifice. Courtyard Dimensions and Layout • 150 × 75 ft rectangle mirrors the proportions of later temple courts (1 Kings 6). • White linen walls: a visual barrier of purity around a sinful camp (cf. Revelation 19:8). • Bronze bases, silver bands: bronze for earth-contact, silver for redemption (Exodus 30:11-16), illustrating a redeemed people standing on righteous judgment. Fine Twisted Linen and Bronze Sockets Archaeological finds of Egyptian flax textiles show comparable craftsmanship. The weight of the linen plus desert winds required bronze sockets anchoring pillars—technology consistent with Late Bronze Age travel. Gate of the Court: Colors and Christ Blue (heaven), purple (royalty), scarlet (sacrifice) weave together in the 20-cubits-wide entrance, foreshadowing Jesus as “the way” (John 14:6). As only one gate leads inside, so one Mediator opens access to God (1 Timothy 2:5). Pegs and Cords: Stability Amid Wilderness Bronze pegs driven into rocky ground prevent flapping fabric from tearing. Numbers 3:26 later assigns Levites to guard these small parts, proving every detail of worship matters. Perpetual Light: Oil, Priests, and Presence The clear olive oil, crushed not pressed with heat, produces a smokeless flame. Priests must tend it nightly—a visible sign that God is awake when Israel sleeps (Psalm 121:4). Revelation 1:12-13 pictures the risen Christ walking among seven lamps, an echo of this vigil. Archaeological Insights: Nomadic Parallels Bedouin tents still use removable wooden frames and woven goat-hair panels tied by pegs, paralleling Israel’s mobile court. Bronze cultic objects from Timna’s Egyptian shrine (c. 1300 BC) demonstrate regional metallurgy suited to desert worship. Intertextual Connections • Exodus 20:24: God already promised an altar of earth or stone; Exodus 27 formalizes a transportable version. • Leviticus 1–7: outlines sacrifices performed here. • Hebrews 13:10-12: believers possess “an altar” outside the camp—Jesus’ cross, the fulfillment of Exodus 27. • Isaiah 60:19: future glory replaces lamp-light with God Himself, but present worship keeps the flame until then. Shadow and Fulfillment in the New Covenant The bronze altar anticipates the cross where the innocent Substitute bears fire of judgment (1 Peter 2:24). The courtyard proclaims separation yet invitation; the single gate previews Christ’s exclusive, all-sufficient access. The ever-burning lamp, fed by pure oil, previews the Holy Spirit’s indwelling life in every believer (Acts 2). Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 9:14 Connects the sacrifices of the Old Testament to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. John 8:12 Jesus declares Himself as the light of the world, paralleling the perpetual light in the Tabernacle. Romans 12:1 Calls believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. Teaching Points The Altar of Burnt Offering (Exodus 27:1-8) The altar was to be made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, measuring five cubits square and three cubits high (Exodus 27:1-2). It had horns on its four corners, symbolizing strength and salvation (Exodus 27:2). The altar was a place of sacrifice, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ (Hebrews 9:14). The Courtyard of the Tabernacle (Exodus 27:9-19) The courtyard was to be enclosed with linen curtains, signifying purity and separation (Exodus 27:9). The dimensions and materials used for the courtyard emphasize order and reverence in worship (Exodus 27:9-19). The Oil for the Lampstand (Exodus 27:20-21) The Israelites were commanded to bring clear oil of pressed olives for the light, ensuring the lamp burned continually (Exodus 27:20). This perpetual light symbolizes God's eternal presence and guidance (John 8:12). Practical Applications Reverence in Worship Approach worship with the same reverence and attention to detail as the Israelites were instructed to have for the Tabernacle. Sacrificial Living Reflect on the significance of sacrifice in your life, recognizing Christ's ultimate sacrifice and how it calls us to live sacrificially for others. Continual Light Ensure that the light of Christ shines continually in your life through regular prayer, study, and obedience to God's Word. People 1. Moses As the leader of the Israelites and the one receiving instructions from God, Moses is the central human figure in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the altar described in Exodus 27. The Hebrew root for Moses' name is "מֹשֶׁה" (Mosheh), which is derived from the verb "מָשָׁה" (mashah), meaning "to draw out," reflecting his being drawn out of the Nile River. 2. Aaron Although not mentioned directly in Exodus 27, Aaron, Moses' brother, is the High Priest and plays a crucial role in the Tabernacle's function. He and his sons are responsible for maintaining the altar and performing sacrifices. Aaron's name in Hebrew is "אַהֲרֹן" (Aharon), which does not have a clear etymology but is significant in the priestly context. 3. The Israelites The broader community of the Israelites is implied as they are the ones for whom the Tabernacle is being constructed. They contribute materials and labor for its construction. The term "Israelites" comes from "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisra'el), meaning "God contends" or "one who struggles with God," reflecting Jacob's name change after wrestling with the angel. While Exodus 27 does not explicitly name these individuals, their roles are integral to the narrative and the construction of the Tabernacle as described in the surrounding chapters. Places 1. The Altar of Burnt Offering This altar is described in Exodus 27:1-8. It is to be made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze. The altar is a central place for sacrifices and offerings to God. The Hebrew term for altar is "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), which signifies a place of sacrifice. 2. The Courtyard of the Tabernacle Detailed in Exodus 27:9-19, the courtyard surrounds the tabernacle and is enclosed by curtains made of fine twisted linen. The courtyard serves as a designated holy area where the Israelites can come to worship and offer sacrifices. The Hebrew word for courtyard is "חָצֵר" (chatser), indicating an enclosed space or court. Events 1. Construction of the Altar of Burnt Offering (Exodus 27:1-8) The chapter begins with God instructing Moses on how to build the altar of burnt offering. It is to be made of acacia wood, measuring five cubits long and five cubits wide, and three cubits high. The altar is to have horns on its four corners, and it is to be overlaid with bronze. The Hebrew word for altar, "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), signifies a place of sacrifice. 2. Utensils for the Altar (Exodus 27:3) Specific utensils are to be made for the altar, including pots for removing ashes, shovels, basins, forks, and firepans, all made of bronze. These items are essential for the sacrificial rituals. 3. Grating and Rings for the Altar (Exodus 27:4-5) A bronze grating is to be made for the altar, with a network of bronze rings at its four corners. This grating is to be set under the ledge of the altar, halfway up from the base. 4. Poles for Carrying the Altar (Exodus 27:6-7) Poles made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze are to be inserted into the rings on the sides of the altar for carrying it. This reflects the Hebrew tradition of portability for the tabernacle and its furnishings. 5. Construction of the Courtyard (Exodus 27:9-19) Instructions are given for the courtyard of the tabernacle. The courtyard is to be 100 cubits long and 50 cubits wide, with curtains of fine twisted linen and twenty pillars with bronze bases. The Hebrew term "חָצֵר" (chatser) refers to an enclosed area or courtyard. 6. Gate of the Courtyard (Exodus 27:16) The gate of the courtyard is to be 20 cubits wide, with a curtain of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely twisted linen, embroidered with needlework. This entrance signifies the separation between the sacred space and the outside world. 7. Oil for the Lampstand (Exodus 27:20-21) The chapter concludes with instructions for the Israelites to bring pure, pressed olive oil for the light, to keep the lamp burning continually in the Tent of Meeting. The Hebrew word "נֵר" (ner) refers to a lamp or light, symbolizing the presence of God. Lessons from Exodus 27 1. The Importance of Detailed Instructions Exodus 27 is a testament to the significance of following detailed instructions. God provided Moses with specific guidelines for constructing the altar and the courtyard. This reminds us that God cares about the details in our lives. As it says in Proverbs 3:6, "In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." Paying attention to the details can lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. 2. The Altar as a Symbol of Sacrifice The altar described in Exodus 27 is a powerful symbol of sacrifice. It points us to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who gave His life for our sins. Hebrews 9:22 reminds us, "Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness." This lesson encourages us to live sacrificially, putting others before ourselves and following Christ's example. 3. The Role of the Priests The priests had a crucial role in maintaining the altar and the tabernacle. This highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and service. As 1 Peter 2:9 states, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession." We are called to serve and lead others in faith, just as the priests did. 4. The Significance of the Courtyard The courtyard of the tabernacle was a place of gathering and worship. It reminds us of the importance of community and fellowship in our spiritual journey. Hebrews 10:25 encourages us, "Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another." Being part of a faith community strengthens and uplifts us. 5. The Use of Bronze Bronze was used extensively in the construction of the altar and the courtyard. This metal symbolizes strength and endurance. In our lives, we are called to be resilient and steadfast in our faith. As Ephesians 6:10 advises, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power." 6. The Eternal Flame The command to keep the lamp burning continually in Exodus 27:20-21 is a powerful reminder of the eternal presence of God. It symbolizes the light of Christ in our lives. John 8:12 tells us, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." We are called to keep our spiritual flame burning brightly. 7. The Value of Obedience Exodus 27 underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands. Following His instructions leads to blessings and fulfillment. As Jesus said in John 14:15, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." Obedience is a reflection of our love and commitment to God. 8. The Beauty of God's Design The intricate design of the tabernacle and its furnishings reflects the beauty and creativity of God. It reminds us that we are created in His image, with the ability to create and appreciate beauty. Psalm 19:1 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." 9. The Call to Holiness The sacredness of the tabernacle and its elements calls us to a life of holiness. We are set apart for God's purposes. As 1 Peter 1:16 urges, "Be holy, because I am holy." Striving for holiness in our daily lives brings us closer to God. 10. The Promise of God's Presence Finally, Exodus 27 assures us of God's presence among His people. The tabernacle was a physical representation of God dwelling with the Israelites. Today, we have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, as promised in John 14:16-17: "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth." This promise gives us hope and assurance in our walk with God. Topics 1. The Altar of Burnt Offering (Exodus 27:1-8) This section details the construction of the altar, which is to be made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze. The altar is described as being square, with horns on its corners. The Hebrew word for altar, "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), signifies a place of sacrifice, highlighting its central role in the sacrificial system. The altar's design, including its grating and utensils, emphasizes the importance of purity and holiness in worship. 2. The Courtyard of the Tabernacle (Exodus 27:9-19) Instructions are given for the construction of the courtyard surrounding the Tabernacle. The courtyard is to be enclosed with linen curtains supported by bronze pillars. The Hebrew term for courtyard, "חָצֵר" (chatser), indicates an enclosed area, symbolizing separation from the outside world and dedication to God. The dimensions and materials used reflect the order and sanctity required in approaching God. 3. The Oil for the Lampstand (Exodus 27:20-21) This section commands the Israelites to bring pure, pressed olive oil for the lampstand, ensuring it burns continually. The Hebrew word for pure, "זַךְ" (zakh), underscores the need for purity in offerings to God. The perpetual light symbolizes God's eternal presence and guidance, with the lampstand serving as a reminder of the divine light that leads the faithful. Themes 1. The Altar of Burnt Offering This theme focuses on the construction and purpose of the altar, which is central to the sacrificial system. The altar is described as being made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze (Exodus 27:1-2). The Hebrew word for altar, "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), signifies a place of sacrifice, highlighting the importance of atonement and worship in the Israelite community. 2. Holiness and Separation The design and materials of the altar and its utensils (Exodus 27:3-8) emphasize the holiness required in approaching God. The use of bronze, a durable and resistant material, symbolizes strength and judgment, underscoring the need for purity and separation from sin. 3. The Courtyard of the Tabernacle The instructions for the courtyard (Exodus 27:9-19) reflect the theme of access to God. The courtyard serves as a boundary, delineating sacred space and illustrating the concept of approaching God with reverence. The Hebrew term "חָצֵר" (chatser) for courtyard indicates an enclosed area, signifying protection and sanctity. 4. Community Participation in Worship The requirement for the Israelites to bring clear oil of pressed olives for the lampstand (Exodus 27:20) highlights communal involvement in worship. This theme underscores the collective responsibility of the community to maintain the light, symbolizing God's presence and guidance. 5. Perpetual Light and Divine Presence The command for the lamp to burn continually (Exodus 27:20-21) represents the enduring presence of God among His people. The Hebrew word "תָּמִיד" (tamid), meaning continually or perpetually, emphasizes the constancy of God's light and presence, which is central to the life and worship of the Israelites. Prayer Points Pray for a deeper understanding of the significance of worship and sacrifice in your life. Ask God to help you maintain the light of Christ in your daily walk. Seek God's guidance in living a life that reflects His holiness and purity. As we study Exodus 27, may we be reminded of the holiness of God and the call to worship Him with reverence and awe. Let us strive to keep the light of Christ burning brightly in our lives, reflecting His love and truth to the world around us. Answering Tough Questions 1. Exodus 27:1–8: How could the Israelites feasibly construct and transport such a large bronze-covered acacia wood altar during prolonged desert wanderings? 2. Exodus 27:9–19: Is there any archaeological or historical evidence supporting a courtyard of these exact dimensions being used by a nomadic community? 3. Exodus 27:20: Where would the Israelites consistently obtain the “pure olive oil” needed to keep the lamp burning in an arid wilderness? 4. Exodus 27:9–19: How do we reconcile these detailed Tabernacle dimensions with differing descriptions of sacred spaces elsewhere in the Bible? 5. Exodus 27:1–8: Does the prescribed size and design of the altar align with the volume and frequency of sacrifices mentioned in other biblical texts? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What do the specific instructions for the construction of the altar tell us about the importance of worship spaces in our spiritual lives? 2. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in these instructions to our daily Christian living? 3. What does the use of bronze in the construction of the altar and its utensils symbolize, and how can we apply this symbolism to our faith journey? 4. Why do you think God asked for the continual burning of the lamps, and what does it signify? 5. How does the tending of lamps by Aaron and his sons symbolize the continuity of faith and dedication through generations? 6. What do the measurements and layout of the courtyard tell us about the balance and order in God's designs? 7. How can the crafting of the altar inspire us to reflect on the sacrificial aspects of our faith? 8. How do the specific materials and colors used in the construction of the courtyard reflect the sacredness of the tabernacle? 9. How does the description of the gate of the courtyard enhance our understanding of access to God's presence? 10. Why might God have given such meticulous instructions for creating these sacred spaces? 11. How does the command to use pure, pressed olive oil for the lamps symbolize the purity and quality of our devotion to God? 12. In what ways can we keep our 'lamps' burning continually in our modern life? 13. How can the responsibility given to Aaron and his sons inspire us in our roles within our church and community? 14. In what ways does the creation of the courtyard reflect the communal nature of worship? 15. What lessons of stewardship and conservation can we learn from the instruction to use bronze for all utensils and tent pegs? 16. How does this passage enhance our understanding of the relationship between God and the Israelites? 17. How might we consider the role of beauty and artistry in our worship practices based on these instructions? 18. How does the emphasis on continuity ("for the generations to come") in this passage influence our understanding of faith traditions? 19. How can we cultivate a sense of the sacred in our everyday environments, inspired by the construction of the tabernacle and its courtyard? 20. How does the construction of these sacred spaces underscore the importance of tangible reminders of God's presence in our lives? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions