Exodus 27:2

Make a horn on each of its four corners, so that the horns are of one piece, and overlay it with bronze.

Study Bible

Make a horn on each of its four corners
The altar described here is the altar of burnt offering, central to the sacrificial system in the Tabernacle. The horns on each corner symbolize strength and power, often associated with God's protection and refuge (Psalm 18:2). In ancient Near Eastern culture, horns were emblematic of authority and might. The four corners may represent the universality of the altar's purpose, extending to all directions and peoples.

so that the horns are of one piece
The instruction for the horns to be of one piece with the altar emphasizes the unity and integrity of the structure. This design signifies the completeness and perfection required in worship and sacrifice. It reflects the idea that the altar, as a place of atonement, must be whole and undivided, symbolizing the undivided nature of God's covenant with His people.

and overlay it with bronze
Bronze, a durable and resilient metal, is used extensively in the Tabernacle's construction, particularly for items associated with judgment and sacrifice. The use of bronze here signifies the altar's role in enduring the fire of sacrifices and the judgment of sin. Bronze's association with judgment is seen in other scriptures, such as the bronze serpent in Numbers 21:9, which prefigures Christ's crucifixion (John 3:14-15). The overlaying of the altar with bronze also points to the need for purification and the enduring nature of God's provision for atonement.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the Tabernacle from God on Mount Sinai.

2. The Altar of Burnt Offering
A key component of the Tabernacle, where sacrifices were made to God. It symbolizes atonement and reconciliation with God.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the Law and instructions for worship through Moses.

4. Mount Sinai
The place where God delivered the Law and the instructions for the Tabernacle to Moses.

5. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Horns
The horns on the altar represent strength and power. In biblical symbolism, horns often denote authority and might. The integration of the horns with the altar signifies the completeness and unity of God's provision for atonement.

Significance of Bronze
Bronze, used to overlay the altar, symbolizes judgment and endurance. It reminds believers of the seriousness of sin and the enduring nature of God's justice.

Unity in Worship
The instruction that the horns be of one piece with the altar underscores the importance of unity in worship. Our approach to God should be holistic, integrating all aspects of our lives.

Atonement and Reconciliation
The altar's primary function was for sacrifices, pointing to the need for atonement and reconciliation with God. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who reconciles us to God.

Holiness and Consecration
The detailed instructions for the altar remind us of the holiness required in approaching God. Our lives should be consecrated, set apart for His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the design of the altar, with its horns and bronze overlay, reflect the character of God as both just and merciful?

2. In what ways can the concept of unity, as seen in the altar's construction, be applied to our personal and communal worship today?

3. How does the role of the altar in the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance our understanding of Christ's sacrifice on the cross?

4. What does the use of bronze in the altar's construction teach us about enduring faith in the face of judgment?

5. How can we ensure that our lives are consecrated and set apart for God, similar to the sacred objects in the Tabernacle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:10
This verse discusses the annual atonement made on the horns of the altar, connecting the physical structure to its spiritual significance.

Leviticus 4:7
Describes the use of the altar's horns in the sin offering, highlighting their role in the sacrificial system.

Hebrews 9:22
Connects the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, emphasizing the necessity of blood for atonement.

Psalm 118:27
Mentions binding the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar, symbolizing dedication and consecration to God.