The altar holds profound significance throughout the biblical narrative, serving as a central element in worship, sacrifice, and covenantal relationships between God and His people. From the earliest accounts in Genesis to the visions in Revelation, the altar is a symbol of divine-human interaction, representing both the presence of God and the response of humanity.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, altars are first mentioned in the context of the patriarchs. Noah, after the flood, built an altar to the LORD and offered burnt offerings (Genesis 8:20). This act of worship and thanksgiving set a precedent for the use of altars as places of sacrifice and communication with God. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob also built altars at significant moments in their journeys, marking encounters with God and His promises (Genesis 12:7-8; 26:25; 35:1-7).

The construction of the altar became more formalized with the establishment of the Mosaic Law. The altar of burnt offering, located in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple, was central to Israelite worship. It was here that sacrifices were made to atone for sin, express gratitude, and seek God's favor. The instructions for building the altar were detailed and specific, emphasizing its sacred purpose (Exodus 27:1-8; Leviticus 1-7).

The altar also served as a place of covenant renewal and national repentance. In the time of Joshua, an altar was built on Mount Ebal as part of the covenant renewal ceremony (Joshua 8:30-35). Similarly, during periods of national crisis or apostasy, leaders like Elijah called the people back to the altar to restore their relationship with God (1 Kings 18:30-39).

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the significance of the altar is transformed through the person and work of Jesus Christ. The physical altars of the Old Testament find their fulfillment in the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross. Hebrews 13:10-12 speaks of an altar from which those who serve the tabernacle have no right to eat, pointing to the new covenant established through Jesus' sacrifice.

The altar imagery continues in the book of Revelation, where the heavenly altar is depicted as a place of worship and divine judgment (Revelation 6:9; 8:3-5). The prayers of the saints are offered on the golden altar before the throne, symbolizing the ongoing intercession and worship of God's people.

Theological Significance

Theologically, the altar represents several key concepts in the biblical narrative:

1. Sacrifice and Atonement: The altar is primarily associated with sacrifice, a means by which sin is atoned for and fellowship with God is restored. The blood of the sacrifices, sprinkled on the altar, prefigures the atoning work of Christ, whose blood was shed for the forgiveness of sins (Hebrews 9:22).

2. Worship and Devotion: Altars are places of worship, where individuals and communities express their devotion to God. The act of building an altar signifies a commitment to honor and serve the LORD, as seen in the lives of the patriarchs and the nation of Israel.

3. Covenant and Relationship: The altar is a symbol of the covenant relationship between God and His people. It serves as a reminder of God's promises and the people's obligation to live in obedience and faithfulness.

4. Divine Presence: The altar signifies the presence of God among His people. In the Tabernacle and Temple, the altar was a focal point of God's dwelling place, where He met with His people and accepted their offerings.

In summary, the altar is a multifaceted symbol within the biblical narrative, embodying themes of sacrifice, worship, covenant, and divine presence. Its significance is ultimately fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is both the High Priest and the perfect sacrifice, reconciling humanity to God.