The Altar at Bethel holds significant importance in biblical history, serving as a site of worship, revelation, and divine encounter. Bethel, meaning "House of God," is first mentioned in the context of the patriarchs and later becomes a central location in the religious life of Israel.

Patriarchal Significance

The earliest mention of Bethel is found in Genesis 12:8, where Abram (later Abraham) pitches his tent between Bethel and Ai and builds an altar to the LORD. This act signifies Abram's devotion and the establishment of a place for worship and sacrifice. Later, in Genesis 28:10-22, Jacob, fleeing from his brother Esau, has a profound dream at Bethel. In this dream, he sees a ladder reaching to heaven with angels ascending and descending on it. Upon awakening, Jacob declares, "Surely the LORD is in this place, and I was unaware of it" (Genesis 28:16). He sets up a stone pillar, anoints it with oil, and names the place Bethel, vowing that it will be God's house.

The Altar in the Time of the Judges and Kings

Bethel continues to be a significant religious site during the period of the Judges and the monarchy. In Judges 20:18-28, the Israelites go to Bethel to seek the LORD's guidance in their conflict with the tribe of Benjamin. The presence of the Ark of the Covenant at Bethel during this time underscores its importance as a center of worship.

The most notable event concerning the altar at Bethel occurs during the reign of King Jeroboam I. After the division of the united monarchy, Jeroboam establishes Bethel as one of the two centers of worship in the northern kingdom of Israel, setting up a golden calf and building an altar (1 Kings 12:28-33). This act is a direct violation of the Mosaic Law, which commands exclusive worship of Yahweh at the temple in Jerusalem. The prophet Amos later condemns the idolatrous practices at Bethel, declaring, "Seek the LORD and live, or He will sweep like fire through the house of Joseph; it will devour Bethel, with no one to quench it" (Amos 5:6).

Prophetic Encounters and Reforms

The altar at Bethel becomes a focal point for prophetic activity. In 1 Kings 13, a man of God from Judah prophesies against the altar, declaring that a future king, Josiah, will desecrate it by burning human bones on it. This prophecy is fulfilled in 2 Kings 23:15-16 when King Josiah, during his religious reforms, destroys the altar at Bethel and defiles it as part of his campaign to eradicate idolatry from the land.

Symbolism and Theological Themes

The altar at Bethel symbolizes both the potential for true worship and the dangers of apostasy. It serves as a reminder of God's covenantal promises to the patriarchs and the need for faithfulness to His commands. The events at Bethel highlight the tension between genuine worship and idolatry, a recurring theme throughout Israel's history.

In summary, the Altar at Bethel is a multifaceted symbol in the biblical narrative, representing both divine encounter and human rebellion. Its history reflects the broader spiritual journey of Israel, marked by moments of profound revelation and periods of significant apostasy.