The concept of the altar as a place of encounter is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, serving as a significant symbol of communion between God and humanity. Throughout Scripture, altars are depicted as sacred sites where individuals and communities meet with God, offering sacrifices, worship, and prayers. These encounters often mark pivotal moments in the biblical account, highlighting the altar's role as a bridge between the divine and the earthly.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, altars are frequently constructed following divine encounters or as a means to seek God's presence. The patriarchs, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, built altars to commemorate their encounters with God. For instance, after God called Abram to leave his homeland, Abram built an altar at Shechem to the Lord who had appeared to him (Genesis 12:7). This act of building an altar signified Abram's acknowledgment of God's promise and presence.

The altar also served as a place of sacrifice, a central element in the worship practices of Israel. The Levitical system, established under Moses, included detailed instructions for constructing the altar and conducting sacrifices (Exodus 27:1-8, Leviticus 1-7). These sacrifices were not merely ritualistic but were intended as a means of atonement and reconciliation with God, facilitating a deeper encounter with the divine.

The Altar in the Tabernacle and Temple

The tabernacle and later the temple in Jerusalem featured altars as focal points of worship. The altar of burnt offering, located in the courtyard of the tabernacle, was where the Israelites presented their sacrifices to God. This altar symbolized God's willingness to dwell among His people and receive their offerings (Exodus 29:42-43). The altar of incense, situated inside the Holy Place, represented the prayers of the people ascending to God, further emphasizing the altar's role as a place of divine encounter (Exodus 30:1-10).

Solomon's temple continued this tradition, with the altar playing a central role in the religious life of Israel. During the temple's dedication, Solomon prayed at the altar, and God's glory filled the temple, signifying His acceptance and presence (2 Chronicles 7:1-3).

Prophetic and Symbolic Significance

The prophets often used the imagery of the altar to call Israel back to true worship and repentance. Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel involved the repair of the Lord's altar, symbolizing the restoration of genuine worship and the people's return to God (1 Kings 18:30-39). This event underscored the altar as a place where God reveals His power and reestablishes His covenant with His people.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the concept of the altar evolves with the coming of Christ, who is seen as the ultimate sacrifice and mediator between God and humanity. The writer of Hebrews speaks of Jesus as the high priest who offers Himself as a sacrifice on the heavenly altar, thus providing believers with direct access to God (Hebrews 9:11-14). This shift highlights the fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrificial system and the altar's role in facilitating a new covenant relationship with God.

The altar remains a powerful symbol in Christian worship, representing the believer's encounter with God through Christ. The Lord's Supper, often celebrated at an altar, serves as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice and the ongoing communion between God and His people.

Conclusion

The altar as a place of encounter is a profound theme throughout the Bible, illustrating the dynamic relationship between God and humanity. From the patriarchs to the prophets, and ultimately in the person of Jesus Christ, the altar signifies moments of divine revelation, worship, and covenant renewal. It remains a central element in the spiritual life of believers, symbolizing the ongoing invitation to meet with God in worship and prayer.