Exodus 38:2

He made a horn at each of its four corners, so that the horns and altar were of one piece, and he overlaid the altar with bronze.

Study Bible

He made a horn
The word "horn" in Hebrew is "קֶרֶן" (qeren), which often symbolizes strength and power in biblical literature. In the context of the altar, the horns were not merely decorative but served a functional purpose, representing the power and authority of God. The horns of the altar were also places of refuge, as seen in other biblical narratives where individuals sought asylum by grasping them. This reflects the idea that God's power is a source of protection and sanctuary for His people.

on each of the four corners
The phrase "four corners" signifies completeness and universality in biblical symbolism. The altar's design, with horns on each corner, suggests that God's power and presence extend to all directions and encompass the entirety of creation. This universality is a reminder of God's omnipresence and His sovereign rule over the earth. The four corners also align with the four cardinal directions, symbolizing that God's justice and mercy are available to all people, regardless of their location.

so that the horns and the altar were of one piece
The unity of the horns and the altar being "of one piece" underscores the integral nature of God's attributes. Just as the horns are inseparable from the altar, God's power, justice, and mercy are inseparable from His divine nature. This unity reflects the consistency and reliability of God's character, assuring believers that His promises and His presence are steadfast and unchanging.

and he overlaid it with bronze
Bronze, or "נְחֹשֶׁת" (nechosheth) in Hebrew, is a metal associated with strength and durability. The use of bronze for the altar signifies the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people. Bronze's resistance to corrosion symbolizes the incorruptible and eternal aspects of God's laws and His relationship with humanity. In the context of the tabernacle, bronze was used for items associated with judgment and sacrifice, pointing to the altar's role in atonement and reconciliation between God and His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
The chief artisan appointed by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the altar mentioned in this verse.

2. The Altar of Burnt Offering
A key component of the Tabernacle, used for sacrifices and offerings to God. It symbolizes atonement and reconciliation with God.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. The Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from Egypt and were given the Law and instructions for worship.

5. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites wandered for 40 years and where the Tabernacle was constructed and used.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar represents the need for atonement and the seriousness of sin. It points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the sacrificial system.

Unity in Worship
The altar being of one piece with its horns signifies the unity and completeness required in our worship and dedication to God. Our lives should be wholly devoted to Him.

The Role of Obedience
Bezalel's adherence to God's specific instructions for the altar teaches us the importance of obedience in our walk with God. We are called to follow His commands precisely.

The Significance of Sacrifice
The bronze overlay signifies strength and endurance, reminding us that our sacrifices to God should be sincere and enduring, not superficial or temporary.

God's Presence Among His People
The construction of the altar within the Tabernacle underscores God's desire to dwell among His people, a theme fulfilled in the New Testament through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the altar in Exodus 38:2 reflect the character and holiness of God?

2. In what ways does the altar of burnt offering foreshadow the sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

3. How can we apply the principle of unity in worship, as seen in the altar being of one piece, to our personal and corporate worship today?

4. What does the obedience of Bezalel in constructing the altar teach us about following God's instructions in our own lives?

5. How does the concept of sacrifice in the Old Testament altar relate to the New Testament call to present our bodies as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1)?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27:1-8
Provides the initial instructions for building the altar, emphasizing its dimensions and materials, which are fulfilled in Exodus 38:2.

Leviticus 4:7
Discusses the use of the altar's horns in the sin offering, highlighting their significance in the sacrificial system.

Hebrews 9:22
Connects the concept of blood sacrifice for atonement, which the altar facilitated, to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

Psalm 118:27
Mentions binding the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar, symbolizing dedication and consecration to God.