The Altar of the LORD in Jerusalem holds a significant place in biblical history and worship practices, serving as a central point for sacrifices and offerings to God. This altar is intricately connected to the Temple, which was the focal point of Jewish worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

Historical Background

The concept of an altar as a place of sacrifice and worship is deeply rooted in the Old Testament. The first mention of an altar in Jerusalem is associated with King David. After purchasing the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite, David built an altar to the LORD to halt a plague that had struck Israel (2 Samuel 24:18-25; 1 Chronicles 21:18-30). This site later became the location for Solomon's Temple, as David's son Solomon constructed the Temple on Mount Moriah, where the LORD had appeared to David (2 Chronicles 3:1).

Solomon's Temple

The Altar of the LORD in Solomon's Temple was a grand structure made of bronze. It was situated in the Temple's courtyard and was used for burnt offerings, grain offerings, and peace offerings, among others. The altar was a place where the Israelites could atone for their sins and seek reconciliation with God. The dedication of the Temple and its altar is recorded in 2 Chronicles 7:1-3, where fire from heaven consumed the offerings, signifying God's acceptance and presence.

Post-Exilic Period

After the destruction of Solomon's Temple by the Babylonians in 586 BC, the altar was rebuilt during the post-exilic period. Under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua, the altar was constructed even before the foundation of the Second Temple was laid (Ezra 3:1-6). This act demonstrated the importance of the altar in re-establishing worship and covenant relationship with God.

Herod's Temple

The Second Temple, later expanded by Herod the Great, continued to feature the Altar of the LORD as a central element of worship. The altar remained a place for daily sacrifices and special offerings during festivals. It was here that the priests performed their duties, maintaining the sacrificial system that pointed to the need for atonement and foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Symbolism and Significance

The Altar of the LORD in Jerusalem symbolizes the covenant relationship between God and His people. It represents the need for atonement, the seriousness of sin, and the provision of forgiveness through sacrifice. The altar also prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who, according to the New Testament, offered Himself once for all as the perfect atonement for sin (Hebrews 10:10-14).

Biblical References

· 2 Samuel 24:18-25: David builds an altar on the threshing floor of Araunah.
· 1 Chronicles 21:18-30: The account of David's altar and the cessation of the plague.
· 2 Chronicles 3:1: Solomon builds the Temple on Mount Moriah.
· 2 Chronicles 7:1-3: The dedication of Solomon's Temple and the altar.
· Ezra 3:1-6: The rebuilding of the altar during the post-exilic period.

The Altar of the LORD in Jerusalem remains a profound testament to the faith and devotion of the Israelites, serving as a powerful symbol of worship, sacrifice, and the hope of redemption through God's provision.