“A cubit shall be the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof; foursquare shall it be: and two cubits shall be the height thereof: the horns thereof shall be of the same.”
This verse is part of the instructions given by God to Moses regarding the construction of the Altar of Incense in the Tabernacle.
The Altar of Incense was one of the sacred pieces of furniture in the Tabernacle, which was a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wilderness journey.
Dimensions of the Altar:The Altar of Incense was to be a square, with each side measuring one cubit in length. A cubit was a common ancient measurement and is approximately equal to the length from a person’s elbow to the tip of their middle finger, typically about 18 inches (45.72 cm). So, the Altar’s length and breadth were one cubit each, making it a square. The height of the Altar was two cubits, which would be 36 inches (91.44 cm).
Foursquare Shape:The use of the word “foursquare” means that all sides of the Altar were equal in length, emphasizing its symmetry and balance. The significance of the square shape could be symbolic, representing stability, completeness, and the balanced nature of God’s character.
The Horns of the Altar:The Altar had four horns, one on each corner. These horns were integral to the Altar’s design and held symbolic importance. The horns represented strength and power. In some instances in the Old Testament, people seeking refuge would hold onto the horns of the Altar as a sign of seeking God’s mercy and protection (see 1 Kings 1:50; 2:28).
Uniform Material:While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the Altar of Incense, like other articles in the Tabernacle, was to be made of acacia wood, and its surface was to be overlaid with pure gold (Exodus 37:25-26). This combination of wood and gold represented the blending of humanity (wood) and divinity (gold), reflecting Christ’s dual nature as both God and man.
The Altar of Incense held great significance in the worship practices of the Israelites. It was located in the Holy Place, just before the Veil that separated it from the Most Holy Place (the Holy of Holies). The priests would burn incense on the Altar twice daily, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God (Psalm 141:2; Luke 1:10; Revelation 5:8). The aroma of the incense was a pleasing offering to God and a representation of the prayers and adoration of His people.
In a broader spiritual context, the Altar of Incense can also symbolize Christ’s intercessory role as our High Priest, who continually intercedes on behalf of believers before God (Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:34). The incense represents the prayers of the saints that Christ presents to the Father.
As we reflect on Exodus 30:2 and the Altar of Incense, we are reminded of the importance of prayer and worship in our relationship with God. Just as the incense offered on the Altar was to be pure and pleasing, may our prayers and worship be sincere, genuine, and dedicated to God alone.
