Exodus 27:2 - You shall make its horns on its four corners; its horns shall be of one piece with it; and you shall overlay it with brass.

Generated Verse: Exodus 27:2

What does "Exodus 27:2" mean?


Exodus 27:2 is a very specific instruction related to the altar of burnt offering in the Tabernacle. Let's break down what each part means:

"You shall make its horns on its four corners": This refers to making horn-like projections on each of the four corners of the altar. These weren't just decorative; they had symbolic and practical importance.

"its horns shall be of one piece with it": This means the horns were not to be attached separately but were an integral part of the altar's structure itself, presumably carved or formed from the same material. This emphasized the horns' importance and stability.

"and you shall overlay it with brass": The entire altar, including the horns, was to be covered with brass (bronze). Brass was a durable and heat-resistant metal, suitable for an altar where sacrifices were burned.

Significance and Interpretation:

Horns as Symbols of Power and Refuge: Horns were ancient symbols of power, strength, and royalty. In the context of the altar, they represented God's power and authority. They also served as a place of refuge. People could grasp the horns of the altar to seek asylum or clemency. This is mentioned in other parts of the Old Testament (e.g., 1 Kings 1:50, 2:28).

"One Piece" for Unity and Inseparability: The horns being "of one piece" with the altar suggests the inseparable connection between the altar and its purpose: atonement and sacrifice. The horns weren't mere add-ons; they were fundamental to the altar's function.

Brass for Judgment and Durability: Brass (bronze) is often associated with judgment in the Bible. The altar was the place where sin was dealt with through sacrifice, so the brass overlay could symbolize divine judgment. The durability of brass also ensured the altar could withstand the constant fire and use.

In summary, Exodus 27:2 details the specific construction of the altar of burnt offering, highlighting the importance of the horns as symbols of power, refuge, and unity with the altar's purpose of sacrifice and atonement, all protected by the durable and symbolic brass overlay.

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