Topical Encyclopedia
IntroductionIn biblical tradition, the altar holds a significant place as a sacred space where humans and the divine meet. It serves as a focal point for worship, sacrifice, and prayer. The altar is not merely a physical structure but a symbol of devotion, repentance, and communication with God. Throughout the Bible, altars are closely associated with prayer, serving as a place where individuals and communities seek God's presence, guidance, and intervention.
Old Testament ContextIn 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 prayer and sacrifice. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob also built altars as they journeyed, marking significant encounters with God (
Genesis 12:7-8; 26:25; 35:1-7).
The construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem formalized the use of altars in Israelite worship. The altar of burnt offering, located in the courtyard of the Tabernacle, was central to the sacrificial system (
Exodus 27:1-8). It was here that priests offered sacrifices on behalf of the people, seeking atonement and favor from God. The altar of incense, situated inside the Holy Place, was used for burning incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God (
Exodus 30:1-10).
The connection between the altar and prayer is evident in the Psalms and prophetic literature. The psalmist often speaks of approaching God's altar with a heart of prayer and praise (
Psalm 43:4). The prophets, too, emphasize the importance of sincere prayer over mere ritualistic offerings (
Isaiah 1:11-17;
Hosea 6:6).
New Testament ContextIn the New Testament, the concept of the altar evolves with the coming of Christ. Jesus Himself is seen as the ultimate sacrifice, rendering the physical altars of the Old Covenant obsolete. However, the spiritual significance of the altar as a place of prayer and communion with God remains.
Jesus taught about the importance of prayer, often withdrawing to solitary places to pray (
Mark 1:35). He emphasized the need for sincerity and faith in prayer, teaching His disciples to pray with humility and persistence (
Matthew 6:5-13;
Luke 18:1-8). The early Christians continued this practice, gathering for prayer and breaking of bread, which can be seen as a spiritual altar where they encountered the risen Christ (
Acts 2:42).
The Book of Hebrews presents Jesus as the High Priest who offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice, thus opening a new and living way for believers to approach God (
Hebrews 10:19-22). This theological shift underscores the idea that prayer is now offered through Christ, who intercedes on behalf of believers (
Hebrews 7:25).
Symbolism and ApplicationThe altar symbolizes a place of meeting between God and humanity, a place where prayers are offered and heard. It represents the heart's posture before God, whether in repentance, thanksgiving, or supplication. In personal and communal worship, the altar serves as a reminder of the need for a dedicated space and time for prayer.
In contemporary Christian practice, while physical altars may not hold the same central role as in ancient times, the concept of an altar remains relevant. Believers are encouraged to create "altars" in their hearts and homes, dedicating time and space for prayer and communion with God. The altar, therefore, continues to be a powerful symbol of the believer's relationship with God, rooted in the rich biblical tradition of worship and prayer.