Exodus 20:24

KJV

An altar of earth thou shalt make unto me, and shalt sacrifice thereon thy burnt offerings, and thy peace offerings, thy sheep, and thine oxen: in all places where I record my name I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

An altar {H4196} of earth {H127} thou shalt make {H6213} unto me, and shalt sacrifice {H2076} thereon thy burnt offerings {H5930}, and thy peace offerings {H8002}, thy sheep {H6629}, and thine oxen {H1241}: in all places {H4725} where I record {H2142} my name {H8034} I will come {H935} unto thee, and I will bless {H1288} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

For me you need make only an altar of earth; on it you will sacrifice your burnt offerings, peace offerings, sheep, goats and cattle. In every place where I cause my name to be mentioned, I will come to you and bless you.

Berean Standard Bible

You are to make for Me an altar of earth, and sacrifice on it your burnt offerings and peace offerings, your sheep and goats and cattle. In every place where I cause My name to be remembered, I will come to you and bless you.

American Standard Version

An altar of earth thou shalt make unto me, and shalt sacrifice thereon thy burnt-offerings, and thy peace-offerings, thy sheep, and thine oxen: in every place where I record my name I will come unto thee and I will bless thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 20:24 provides foundational instructions for Israelite worship immediately following the Decalogue, emphasizing simplicity, accessibility, and the profound promise of God's tangible presence and blessing. It outlines the acceptable construction of altars and the types of sacrifices to be offered, establishing a direct link between obedient worship and divine communion. This verse sets the stage for Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh, revealing His desire for genuine encounter over human grandeur, and His commitment to meet His people where His name is honored.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 20:24 serves as a crucial bridge from the thunderous pronouncement of the Ten Commandments in [Exodus 20:1-17](/exodus/20-1-17 "Exodus 20:1-17 - The Ten Commandments") to the detailed covenant stipulations and cultic laws that comprise the Book of the Covenant ([Exodus 20:22-23:33](/exodus/20-22-33 "Exodus 20:22-23:33 - The Book of the Covenant")). Specifically, it is part of God's direct address to Moses after the people's fear at Sinai, where they requested Moses to mediate God's words ([Exodus 20:18-21](/exodus/20-18-21 "Exodus 20:18-21 - The People's Fear at Sinai")). This verse, along with [Exodus 20:25-26](/exodus/20-25-26 "Exodus 20:25-26 - Altar Construction Rules"), provides the initial, fundamental guidelines for building altars, preceding the elaborate instructions for the Tabernacle and its sacrificial system detailed in later chapters of [Exodus](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle") and [Leviticus](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus 1 - Laws of Sacrifice"). It underscores that even before a permanent sanctuary, God desired a simple, accessible means for His people to approach Him in worship, emphasizing the principles of worship that would endure throughout their history.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At the time of the Exodus, Israel was emerging from centuries of slavery in Egypt, a culture steeped in elaborate polytheistic worship, grand temples, and complex rituals often involving idolatry and even human sacrifice. Surrounding Canaanite cultures also practiced sophisticated, yet often morally corrupt, forms of worship. In stark contrast, God's command for an "altar of earth" or unhewn stones ([Exodus 20:25](/exodus/20-25 "Exodus 20:25 - Altar of Unhewn Stones")) was a radical departure. It emphasized simplicity, purity, and the avoidance of human artistry that could lead to idolatry or pride, directly countering the pagan impulse to create impressive, human-made objects of worship. This instruction was given to a nomadic people, highlighting the portability and accessibility of worship, rather than restricting it to a single, fixed location. It also established a clear distinction between Yahweh's pure worship and the corrupted practices of the nations, setting the foundation for Israel's unique identity as God's covenant people.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major theological themes within Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Presence and Accessibility**, demonstrating God's desire to dwell among His people and be approached by them, even in their wilderness wanderings. Secondly, it reinforces the theme of **Covenant Relationship**, as worship is presented as a reciprocal act within the covenant: human obedience in worship is met with divine presence and blessing. Thirdly, the command for a simple altar underscores the theme of **Purity and Distinction in Worship**, setting Israel's worship apart from the idolatrous and elaborate practices of surrounding cultures. Lastly, it introduces the foundational principles of **Sacrifice and Atonement**, which would become central to Israel's understanding of sin, forgiveness, and fellowship with God, as further developed in books like [Leviticus](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus 1 - The Laws of Sacrifice").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Altar (Hebrew, _mizbêach'_):** Derived from the verb _zâbach_ (H2076), meaning "to slaughter" or "to sacrifice," a _mizbêach_ is fundamentally a place designated for the offering of sacrifices to God. The specification "of earth" (H127, _ʼădâmâh_), or unhewn stones as clarified in [Exodus 20:25](/exodus/20-25 "Exodus 20:25 - Altar of Unhewn Stones"), signifies simplicity, natural materials, and the avoidance of human shaping or tools that could "defile" the sacred space. This highlights God's preference for humble, natural worship over human grandeur or craftsmanship, which could be associated with pagan practices or pride in human achievement. The altar is not itself divine, but a divinely appointed means of approach.
* **Record (Hebrew, _zâkar'_):** The verb _zâkar_ (H2142), meaning "to remember," "to mention," or "to cause to be remembered," is used here in the Hiphil stem, implying "to cause to be mentioned" or "to establish a memorial of My name." This is not merely God writing His name down, but actively establishing a place where His presence is invoked, His character is acknowledged, and His covenant is remembered and honored. It signifies a divine initiative to make Himself known and accessible to His people at specific, designated points of worship. God's "name" (H8034, _shêm_) represents His very character, authority, and presence.
* **Bless (Hebrew, _bârak'_):** From the root _bârak_ (H1288), meaning "to kneel" and by implication "to bless God" (as adoration) or "to bless man" (as a benefit), this word encompasses divine favor, prosperity, well-being, and fruitfulness. In this context, it signifies God's benevolent outpouring upon His obedient worshipers. It's a reciprocal promise: as Israel approaches God in the prescribed manner, God promises to draw near and bestow His goodness, confirming the intimate and beneficial nature of the covenant relationship. This blessing is comprehensive, touching all aspects of life, both material and spiritual.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"An altar of earth thou shalt make unto me":** This initial command establishes the fundamental requirement for approaching God in worship: a designated place for sacrifice. The material, "earth," emphasizes humility, simplicity, and accessibility, contrasting sharply with the elaborate altars of surrounding pagan cultures. It suggests that God's presence is not confined to grand structures but can be encountered in the most basic, unadorned settings, provided they are consecrated to Him. The command to "make unto me" underscores that the altar's purpose is exclusively for Yahweh's worship.
* **"and shalt sacrifice thereon thy burnt offerings, and thy peace offerings, thy sheep, and thine oxen":** This clause specifies the purpose of the altar – for offering sacrifices – and lists the primary types of offerings and animals. "Burnt offerings" (H5930, _ʻôlâh_) were wholly consumed, signifying complete devotion and atonement for sin ([Leviticus 1](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus 1 - The Burnt Offering")). "Peace offerings" (H8002, _shelem_) were for fellowship, thanksgiving, and vows, with portions shared by the worshiper, priests, and God ([Leviticus 3](/leviticus/3 "Leviticus 3 - The Peace Offering")). The inclusion of "sheep" (H6629, _tsôʼn_) and "oxen" (H1241, _bâqâr_) indicates common, accessible livestock, making sacrifice possible for various economic statuses and ensuring that the means of worship were available to all.
* **"in all places where I record my name I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee":** This is the profound promise that undergirds the entire instruction, revealing God's gracious initiative. God commits to manifesting His presence ("I will come unto thee") and bestowing His favor ("I will bless thee") wherever His name is invoked and honored through obedient worship. This promise is not limited to a single location but extends to "all places" where God chooses to reveal Himself, foreshadowing the Tabernacle and Temple, but also indicating a broader principle of divine accessibility to His worshiping people. It establishes a direct, reciprocal relationship between human obedience in worship and divine communion and blessing, highlighting God's faithfulness to His covenant.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices that enhance its theological message. **Emphasis** is achieved through the direct, imperative command regarding the altar's construction, immediately followed by the divine promise, highlighting the importance of both human obedience and God's gracious initiative. There is a clear **Contrast** between the simplicity of the "altar of earth" and the potential for human-made, elaborate structures, subtly critiquing the idolatrous and self-aggrandizing practices of surrounding nations. The phrase "where I record my name" functions as a form of **Metonymy**, where "My name" stands for God's very presence, character, authority, and self-revelation. The promise "I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee" serves as a powerful **Covenant Formula**, establishing a direct link between the people's worship and God's reciprocal action, reinforcing the conditional yet gracious nature of their relationship. This promise also contains **Foreshadowing**, pointing forward to the dwelling of God's presence in the Tabernacle and Temple, and ultimately, in Christ.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 20:24 lays a foundational theology of worship, emphasizing that true devotion is not about human grandeur or elaborate rituals, but about divine initiative and presence. It reveals God's desire for an accessible, unadorned means for His people to approach Him, where His name is honored and His presence is promised. This principle transcends the specific details of the Old Covenant sacrificial system, pointing to the enduring truth that God seeks genuine communion with His people, and that obedient, heartfelt worship is met with His benevolent presence and blessing. The simplicity of the altar underscores that the efficacy and sacredness of worship derive from God's command and promise, not from human artistry or effort, cultivating humility and dependence on the divine.

* [Deuteronomy 12:5](/deuteronomy/12-5 "The Chosen Place of Worship")
* [Psalm 76:1-2](/psalm/76-1-2 "God Known in Judah")
* [Matthew 18:20](/matthew/18-20 "Where Two or Three Gather")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 20:24 offers timeless principles for our contemporary worship and spiritual lives. It challenges us to consider the true object and nature of our devotion. Are we seeking to impress God with our elaborate programs, or are we humbly seeking His presence in spirit and truth? The emphasis on simplicity reminds us that God values a sincere heart and obedience over outward show or human spectacle. It reassures us that wherever believers gather in His name, acknowledging His authority and seeking His face, God promises to draw near and bestow His blessing. This verse calls us to cultivate a worship that is authentic, accessible, and centered on God's revealed character, trusting that His presence is the ultimate reward for our devotion. It encourages us to prioritize genuine encounter with God, recognizing that His blessing flows from His gracious presence among His people.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the simplicity of the "altar of earth" challenge my assumptions about what constitutes "good" or "effective" worship today, both personally and corporately?**
* **In what ways do I, or my community, actively "record God's name" in our gatherings and daily lives, and how does this invite His promised presence and blessing?**
* **What "sacrifices" (of time, talent, resources, or self) am I offering to God today, and how do they reflect a heart of complete devotion or thankful fellowship, in light of Christ's ultimate sacrifice?**

### FAQ
**Why did God command an "altar of earth" instead of something more elaborate?**

Answer: God commanded an "altar of earth" (or unhewn stones, as clarified in [Exodus 20:25](/exodus/20-25 "Exodus 20:25 - Altar of Unhewn Stones")) for several crucial reasons. Firstly, it emphasized simplicity and accessibility, ensuring that all Israelites, regardless of their wealth or skill, could construct an acceptable altar. This prevented worship from becoming exclusive or dependent on human artistry. Secondly, it served as a direct contrast to the elaborate, often idolatrous altars of surrounding pagan cultures, which frequently involved intricate carvings, metalwork, or human artistry that could lead to pride or the worship of created things rather than the Creator. By prohibiting the use of tools on the stones, God prevented the altar from becoming an object of human craftsmanship or a graven image, thereby safeguarding against idolatry and emphasizing that the sacredness of the altar derived from God's command and presence, not from human embellishment.

**What is the significance of God promising to "record my name" in certain places?**

Answer: The phrase "where I record my name" signifies God's active choice to establish specific locations where His presence would be uniquely manifested and His character acknowledged and honored. It's not merely about God writing His name down, but about Him designating a place where His glory would dwell and where His people could encounter Him. This concept is foundational to the idea of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, which were central places where God "recorded His name" among His people, making Himself accessible for worship, revelation, and covenant renewal ([Deuteronomy 12:5](/deuteronomy/12-5 "Deuteronomy 12:5 - The Chosen Place of Worship")). It highlights God's initiative in making Himself known and available for communion with His people, ensuring that His presence was not arbitrary but tied to His revealed will and the obedience of His covenant partners.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 20:24, with its emphasis on an accessible altar, acceptable sacrifice, and the promise of God's presence and blessing, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The simple "altar of earth" foreshadows the humble, unadorned nature of Christ's sacrifice, not on a grand temple altar, but on a crude wooden cross outside the city gates ([Hebrews 13:12](/hebrews/13-12 "Hebrews 13:12 - Jesus Suffered Outside the Gate")). He is the perfect "burnt offering," completely devoted to God's will, and the ultimate "peace offering," reconciling humanity to God through His shed blood ([Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Reconciliation Through Christ")). Moreover, the promise "in all places where I record my name I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee" is magnificently realized in the New Covenant. No longer is God's presence confined to a physical altar or temple; through Christ, God's Spirit indwells believers, making them living temples where His name is truly recorded and honored ([1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19-20 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Our Bodies are Temples of the Holy Spirit")). Jesus Himself declared, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them" ([Matthew 18:20](/matthew/18-20 "Matthew 18:20 - Where Two or Three Gather")), confirming that His presence and blessing are now available wherever His people gather in faith, having offered themselves as living sacrifices through Him ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")). Thus, Christ is both the altar and the sacrifice, the means by which God's name is truly glorified, and the very embodiment of God's promised presence and blessing to His people.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 12:5

¶ But unto the place which the LORD your God shall choose out of all your tribes to put his name there, [even] unto his habitation shall ye seek, and thither thou shalt come:

2 Chronicles 6:6

But I have chosen Jerusalem, that my name might be there; and have chosen David to be over my people Israel.

Psalms 132:13

For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired [it] for his habitation.

Psalms 132:14

This [is] my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it.

1 Kings 9:3

And the LORD said unto him, I have heard thy prayer and thy supplication, that thou hast made before me: I have hallowed this house, which thou hast built, to put my name there for ever; and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually.

2 Chronicles 7:16

For now have I chosen and sanctified this house, that my name may be there for ever: and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually.

Deuteronomy 12:11

Then there shall be a place which the LORD your God shall choose to cause his name to dwell there; thither shall ye bring all that I command you; your burnt offerings, and your sacrifices, your tithes, and the heave offering of your hand, and all your choice vows which ye vow unto the LORD: