In biblical architecture, a portico refers to a covered entrance or porch, often supported by columns, that serves as a transitional space between the exterior and interior of a building. Porticos are significant in biblical narratives, particularly in the context of the Temple in Jerusalem.

The most notable mention of a portico in the Bible is Solomon's Portico, also known as Solomon's Colonnade. This structure was part of the First Temple, built by King Solomon, and later became a prominent feature of the Second Temple. In 1 Kings 6:3, the construction of the portico is described: "The portico at the front of the main hall of the temple extended the width of the temple, that is twenty cubits, and projected ten cubits from the front of the temple."

Solomon's Portico is also mentioned in the New Testament, where it serves as a gathering place for early Christians. In Acts 3:11, following the healing of a lame man, Peter and John are found in Solomon's Portico: "While the man clung to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and ran to them in the portico called Solomon’s Colonnade."

The portico's role as a place of teaching and gathering is further emphasized in Acts 5:12: "The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people, and with one accord the believers gathered together in Solomon’s Colonnade."

In biblical symbolism, the portico represents a place of transition and revelation, where divine encounters and teachings occur. It serves as a physical and spiritual threshold, inviting believers to enter into deeper communion with God.

Altar

The altar is a central element in biblical worship, serving as a place where sacrifices and offerings are made to God. Altars are mentioned throughout the Bible, from the patriarchal period to the New Testament, symbolizing covenant, worship, and atonement.

In the Old Testament, altars are first mentioned in Genesis, where the patriarchs build altars to worship God and commemorate divine encounters. For instance, Noah builds an altar after the flood in Genesis 8:20: "Then Noah built an altar to the LORD, and taking from every kind of clean animal and bird, he offered burnt offerings on the altar."

The construction and use of altars are further detailed in the Mosaic Law. The altar of burnt offering, located in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple, is described in Exodus 27:1-2: "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 on each of its four corners, so that the horns are of one piece with it, and overlay it with bronze."

Altars serve as places of sacrifice, where offerings are made to atone for sin and express devotion to God. Leviticus 17:11 underscores the significance of blood sacrifices on the altar: "For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you on the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life."

In the New Testament, the concept of the altar is transformed through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 13:10-12 speaks of a new altar: "We have an altar from which those who serve at the tabernacle have no right to eat. The high priest carries the blood of animals into the Most Holy Place as a sin offering, but the bodies are burned outside the camp. And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to sanctify the people by His own blood."

The altar remains a powerful symbol of worship, sacrifice, and the covenant relationship between God and His people, pointing ultimately to the redemptive work of Christ.