Introduction

The altar and sacrifices hold a central place in the religious life and worship practices of ancient Israel, as detailed in the Old Testament. These elements are foundational to understanding the covenant relationship between God and His people, serving as a means of atonement, worship, and communion with the Divine.

The Altar

The altar is a sacred structure upon which offerings and sacrifices are made to God. In the Hebrew Bible, altars are constructed in various forms and materials, often reflecting the context and purpose of their use. The primary Hebrew term for altar is "mizbeach," which signifies a place of sacrifice.

1. Types of Altars:
· Altars of Earth and Stone: In Exodus 20:24-25, God instructs the Israelites to build altars of earth or uncut stones, emphasizing simplicity and divine creation: "You are to make an altar of earth for Me and sacrifice on it your burnt offerings and peace offerings, your sheep and goats and cattle. In every place where I cause My name to be remembered, I will come to you and bless you."
· The Bronze Altar: Located in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple, the bronze altar was used for burnt offerings. Exodus 27:1-2 describes its construction: "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 are of one piece with the altar, and overlay it with bronze."

2. Purpose of the Altar:
· A Place of Sacrifice: The altar serves as the focal point for sacrifices, symbolizing the offering of life and devotion to God.
· A Symbol of God's Presence: Altars are often erected at significant locations where God reveals Himself, such as Jacob's altar at Bethel (Genesis 35:7).

Sacrifices

Sacrifices are offerings made to God, often involving the shedding of blood, to atone for sin, express gratitude, or seek divine favor. The sacrificial system is detailed extensively in the books of Leviticus and Numbers.

1. Types of Sacrifices:
· Burnt Offerings (Olah): These are wholly consumed by fire, symbolizing complete dedication to God. Leviticus 1:3-4 states, "If one's offering is a burnt offering from the herd, he is to offer an unblemished male. He must present it at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, that he may be accepted by the LORD."
· Grain Offerings (Minchah): These are offerings of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, representing the fruits of human labor and thanksgiving (Leviticus 2:1-2).
· Peace Offerings (Zebach Shelamim): These express fellowship and gratitude, with portions consumed by the offerer, the priests, and God (Leviticus 3:1-5).
· Sin Offerings (Chatat) and Guilt Offerings (Asham): These are for atonement of specific sins, emphasizing purification and restitution (Leviticus 4:1-5:19).

2. Significance of Sacrifices:
· Atonement for Sin: Sacrifices serve as a means of atonement, covering the sins of the people and restoring their relationship with God. Leviticus 17:11 underscores this: "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."
· Covenant Relationship: Sacrifices reaffirm the covenant between God and Israel, reminding the people of their obligations and God's promises.

3. Transition to the New Covenant:
· The sacrificial system finds its fulfillment in the New Testament through the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. Hebrews 10:10 states, "And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

Conclusion

The altar and sacrifices are integral to the worship and spiritual life of ancient Israel, serving as a means of atonement, thanksgiving, and communion with God. They foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfills the sacrificial system and establishes a new covenant with humanity.