Topical Encyclopedia The altars of Abraham hold significant importance in the biblical narrative, serving as physical manifestations of his faith and obedience to God. Throughout the Genesis account, Abraham constructs several altars, each marking a pivotal moment in his journey and relationship with God. These altars are not merely places of sacrifice but are also symbols of worship, covenant, and divine encounter.1. The Altar at Shechem The first altar Abraham built was at Shechem, in the land of Canaan. After God called Abraham to leave his homeland and promised to make him a great nation, Abraham traveled to the land God would show him. Upon arriving at Shechem, near the oak of Moreh, the LORD appeared to Abraham and promised, "To your offspring I will give this land" (Genesis 12:7). In response to this divine promise, Abraham built an altar to the LORD, signifying his faith and gratitude. 2. The Altar between Bethel and Ai Moving further into the land, Abraham pitched his tent between Bethel to the west and Ai to the east. Here, he built another altar and "called on the name of the LORD" (Genesis 12:8). This act of worship and invocation of God's name indicates Abraham's continued reliance on and relationship with God as he journeyed through the land of promise. 3. The Altar at Hebron After separating from Lot, Abraham settled in the plain of Mamre, near Hebron. The LORD reaffirmed His covenant with Abraham, promising him numerous descendants and the land of Canaan. In response, Abraham built an altar there to the LORD (Genesis 13:18). This altar symbolized Abraham's acknowledgment of God's promises and his commitment to the divine covenant. 4. The Altar on Mount Moriah Perhaps the most significant altar Abraham constructed was on Mount Moriah, where God tested his faith by commanding him to offer his son Isaac as a burnt offering. In obedience, Abraham built the altar, arranged the wood, and bound Isaac upon it. At the last moment, the Angel of the LORD intervened, providing a ram as a substitute sacrifice (Genesis 22:9-13). This altar not only demonstrated Abraham's unwavering faith but also foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, the Lamb of God. The altars of Abraham are integral to understanding his spiritual journey and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Each altar marks a step in Abraham's walk with God, reflecting his faith, obedience, and the deepening of the covenant relationship. Through these altars, the narrative of Abraham's life becomes a testament to the enduring faithfulness of God and the call to worship and trust in Him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 12:7,8And the LORD appeared to Abram, and said, To your seed will I give this land: and there built he an altar to the LORD, who appeared to him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 13:18 Genesis 22:9 Library Abraham, the Man of Prayer The Story of Abraham and Isaac From Abraham to Egypt. Christ Our High Priest. Jehovah-Jireh The Emperor Constantine Abolishes Paganism and Erects Many ... Introductory Notice to the Early Liturgies. Scenes in the Lives of the Patriarchs. Putting God to Work The Unity of Revelation. 1 "Known unto God are all his Works from ... Resources Who was Athaliah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Hezekiah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who is the Queen of Heaven? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Altars for Idolatrous Worship, often Erected on Roofs of Houses Altars for Idolatrous Worship, to be Destroyed Altars of Brick, Hateful to God Altars of Reubenites East of Jordan Altars of the People of Israel Altars of the Temple of Solomon Altars were not to Have Steps up to Them Altars: Afforded No Protection to Murderers Altars: Designed for Sacrifice Altars: Idolaters Planted Groves Near Altars: Natural Rocks Sometimes Used As Altars: Probable Origin of Inscriptions On Altars: Protection Afforded By Altars: The Jews not to Plant Groves Near Altars: To be Made of Earth, or Unhewn Stone Related Terms |
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