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Book of Exodus - Chapter 38 - Verse 2

38:2
And he made the horns thereof on the four corners of it; the horns thereof were of the same: and he overlaid it with brass.

Meaning

One of the symbolic meanings of the verse 'And he made the horns thereof on the four corners of it; the horns thereof were of the same: and he overlaid it with brass.' can be interpreted according to the nature and significance of horns in the Bible. In the Old Testament, horns are often associated with strength, power, and protection. The four corners of the altar represent completeness and wholeness, signifying that the altar is a place where sacrifices are offered in their entirety. The fact that the horns were made of the same material and overlaid with brass indicates that the altar was a solid and durable structure, meant to withstand the demands of divine worship. The use of brass suggests purification and sanctification, as well as a connection to the divine.

Theological Overview

Here, in this verse from the Bible, we see a description of the altar in the tabernacle that was constructed by the Israelites during their time in the wilderness. The term "horns" is used metaphorically to represent strength and power. The horns of the altar were made of the same material, suggesting uniformity and consistency. The fact that the altar was overlaid with brass is significant because brass is often associated with strength and durability in the Bible. This demonstrates the importance of the altar as a place of worship and sacrifice, symbolizing the presence of God and the atonement of sins. The use of brass also underscores the sacredness of the altar and its role in connecting humanity with the divine. Overall, this verse highlights the meticulous attention to detail and the symbolic significance of the construction of the altar in the tabernacle, emphasizing the reverence and devotion of the Israelites towards God.

American Standard Version

And he made the horns thereof upon the four corners of it; the horns thereof were of one piece with it: and he overlaid it with brass.
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