The Brazen Altar (Exo 27:1-8)

The Brazen Altar, also known as the Altar of Burnt Offering, is another significant element in the biblical Tabernacle. Let's delve into its details based on Exodus 27:1-8:

Construction: The Brazen Altar was made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, making it both sturdy and heat-resistant. It measured 5 cubits square (about 7.5 feet or 2.3 meters) and 3 cubits high (about 4.5 feet or 1.4 meters). The altar had four horns on its corners, also covered in bronze.

Grating: The altar had a bronze grating, a network of bronze, which was placed halfway up the altar. This grating held the coals and allowed ashes to fall through, facilitating the burning process.

Utensils: Various utensils were made for the altar, including pots to remove ashes, shovels, basins, meat forks, and firepans—all made of bronze. These were essential for handling the sacrifices and maintaining the altar.

Carrying Poles: The altar had rings at its corners through which poles of acacia wood, also overlaid with bronze, were inserted. These poles allowed the altar to be carried by the Levites as the Israelites moved through the wilderness.

Purpose: The Brazen Altar was placed in the courtyard of the Tabernacle. It was the site for burnt offerings and sacrifices, serving as a means for the Israelites to atone for their sins and seek God's favor. The offerings included burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings.

The Brazen Altar symbolizes sacrifice, atonement, and dedication. It highlights the importance of seeking reconciliation with God through offerings, which, in the New Testament, is ultimately fulfilled in the sacrificial death of Jesus.