The measurement of the altar is a significant topic in biblical literature, particularly in the context of the tabernacle and the temple, as it reflects the divine instructions given to the Israelites for worship and sacrifice. The altar, as described in the Bible, serves as a central place for offerings and symbolizes the covenant relationship between God and His people.

The Altar of Burnt Offering

The altar of burnt offering, also known as the brazen altar, is first detailed in the instructions given to Moses for the construction of the tabernacle. In Exodus 27:1-2, the Berean Standard Bible states: "You are to construct the altar of acacia wood, five cubits long and five cubits wide; the altar is to be square, and three cubits high. Make a horn at each of the four corners, so that the horns and the altar are of one piece, and overlay it with bronze."

This altar was placed in the courtyard of the tabernacle and was used for burnt offerings, grain offerings, and peace offerings. The dimensions, being five cubits by five cubits and three cubits high, emphasize the altar's substantial size and its central role in the sacrificial system.

The Altar in Solomon's Temple

When Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem, the altar was also a key feature. In 2 Chronicles 4:1 , the altar's dimensions are recorded: "He made a bronze altar twenty cubits long, twenty cubits wide, and ten cubits high." This altar was significantly larger than the one in the tabernacle, reflecting the grandeur and permanence of the temple as a place of worship.

The Altar in Ezekiel's Vision

The prophet Ezekiel provides a detailed vision of a future temple, including the altar, in Ezekiel 43:13-17. The BSB describes the altar's measurements: "These are the measurements of the altar in cubits (the cubit being a cubit and a handbreadth): The gutter shall be a cubit deep and a cubit wide, with a rim of one span around the edge. And this is the height of the altar: From the gutter on the ground up to the lower ledge, it shall be two cubits high and one cubit wide; from the smaller ledge up to the larger ledge, it shall be four cubits high and one cubit wide. The altar hearth shall be four cubits high, and four horns shall project upward from the hearth. The altar hearth shall be twelve cubits long and twelve cubits wide, with four equal sides."

Ezekiel's vision of the altar is rich with symbolic meaning, pointing to a future restoration and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Symbolism and Significance

The precise measurements of the altar in various biblical contexts underscore the importance of order and obedience in worship. The altar's dimensions and construction were not arbitrary but were divinely ordained, reflecting God's holiness and the need for purity in approaching Him. The altar served as a place of atonement, where sacrifices were made to reconcile humanity with God, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Throughout the Bible, the altar's measurements and design highlight the sacredness of worship and the centrality of sacrifice in the relationship between God and His people.