מִזְבֵּחַ

מִזְבֵּחַ

an altar

Definition

The Hebrew word מִזְבֵּחַ (mizbêach) refers to an altar, a structure used primarily for offering sacrifices to God. In its most basic sense, it is a place of slaughter and offering, as seen when Noah builds an altar after the flood (Genesis 8:20). It often signifies a designated site for worship and encounter with God, such as the altars built by the patriarchs to commemorate divine appearances and promises (e.g., Genesis 12:7, 26:25). In the Mosaic law, the term specifically denotes the authorized altar for the tabernacle and temple rituals, central to Israel's covenant worship (Exodus 27:1-8).

Biblical Usage

מִזְבֵּחַ is used 338 times throughout the Old Testament, appearing most frequently in Exodus, Leviticus, and Kings, which detail the construction and use of the tabernacle and temple altars. It commonly describes both makeshift altars built by individuals for specific acts of worship (Genesis 22:9) and the permanent, sanctioned altar for the Israelite cultus (2 Chronicles 4:1). The word is consistently associated with sacrifice, atonement, and divine communion.

Etymology

Derived from the root זָבַח (zāvach, H2076), meaning 'to slaughter' or 'to sacrifice.' The noun form מִזְבֵּחַ literally means 'a place of slaughtering.' This root connection emphasizes the altar's primary function as the site where sacrificial animals were killed and offered.

Semantic Range

The altar is a central theological symbol in Scripture, representing the place where humanity approaches God through sacrifice. It points to the need for atonement for sin and foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Understanding מִזְבֵּחַ enriches reading by highlighting the gravity of worship, the cost of reconciliation, and God's provision of a way to dwell with His people, culminating in Christ as our altar (Hebrews 13:10). In the ancient Near East, altars were common features of religious practice, but Israel's altars were distinct in being dedicated solely to Yahweh. They were often made of uncut stone (Exodus 20:25) or, for the tabernacle/temple, overlaid with bronze or gold. An altar was not merely a ritual object but a tangible point of meeting between God and His people, sanctifying the space for His presence. מַדְבֵּחַ (madbêach, H4056) — Aramaic equivalent used in Daniel and Ezra. | מִזְבֵּחַ קְטֹרֶת (mizbêach qəṭōreth) — The incense altar (Exodus 30:1), distinguished from the main altar of burnt offering.

Word Details