Exodus 20:26

KJV

Neither shalt thou go up by steps unto mine altar, that thy nakedness be not discovered thereon.

KJV (with Strong's)

Neither shalt thou go up {H5927} by steps {H4609} unto mine altar {H4196}, that thy nakedness {H6172} be not discovered {H1540} thereon.

Complete Jewish Bible

Likewise, you are not to use steps to go up to my altar; so that you won't be indecently uncovered.'"

Berean Standard Bible

And you must not go up to My altar on steps, lest your nakedness be exposed on it.’

American Standard Version

Neither shalt thou go up by steps unto mine altar, that thy nakedness be not uncovered thereon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 20:26 concludes the initial divine directives for altar construction, immediately following the foundational Ten Commandments. This specific prohibition against using steps to ascend the altar underscores God's meticulous concern for reverence, modesty, and dignity in worship. It highlights the divine imperative that every aspect of approaching God's holy presence must be conducted with utmost decorum, ensuring that no inadvertent exposure or impropriety detracts from the sanctity of the sacred space or the solemnity of the encounter with the Almighty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the culminating instruction in a brief but profoundly significant section (Exodus 20:24-26) that lays down the foundational principles for constructing altars of worship. It directly follows the monumental giving of [the Ten Commandments](/exodus/20-1 "Exodus 20:1-17 - The Ten Commandments"), which establish the moral and ethical bedrock for Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh. Having just declared His holy nature and fundamental expectations for human conduct, God immediately transitions to the proper manner of approaching Him in worship. The preceding verses, [Exodus 20:24](/exodus/20-24 "Exodus 20:24 - Altar of Earth") and [Exodus 20:25](/exodus/20-25 "Exodus 20:25 - Altar of Unhewn Stone"), prescribe altars made of earth or unhewn stone, emphasizing simplicity, natural materials, and the avoidance of human tools that might "defile" the sacred structure. Exodus 20:26 extends this principle of purity and reverence to the very *act* of approaching the altar, ensuring that even the physical ascent is conducted with utmost decorum, anticipating the more elaborate and detailed instructions for the Tabernacle and its priesthood found later in [the book of Exodus](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the broader ancient Near East, altars were ubiquitous in religious practice, often designed as elaborate, elevated structures with steps leading to their summits. However, Yahweh, the God of Israel, consistently distinguished Himself from the pagan deities of the surrounding nations by demanding worship rooted in holiness, moral purity, and genuine reverence rather than ostentatious displays or human-contrived grandeur. The command against steps for the altar in [Exodus 20:26](/exodus/20-26 "Exodus 20:26 - No Steps to the Altar") was a highly practical measure aimed at preventing the accidental exposure of the lower body, particularly for priests who would be ministering at the altar. Priestly garments in ancient cultures, including early Israel, often consisted of tunics that, when climbing steps, could easily billow or lift, revealing "nakedness" (עֶרְוָה, _'ervah'_). This concern was not merely about prudishness but about upholding the dignity and sanctity of both the priestly office and the sacred space itself. The altar was the divinely appointed interface between the holy God and His people, and any act that introduced indecency, visual distraction, or diminished reverence was strictly forbidden. This meticulous concern for priestly modesty is further evidenced by the later, more detailed instructions for [priestly garments, specifically the linen breeches](/exodus/28-42 "Exodus 28:42 - Linen Breeches for Priests"), which were explicitly designed to cover their nakedness during their service in the Tabernacle.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 20:26 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of **God's Absolute Holiness**. This verse, like the preceding commands for altar construction, underscores that God is set apart, distinct from all human and pagan deities, and demands an approach that reflects His purity and majesty. Related to this is the theme of **Reverence and Proper Worship**. God is not indifferent to *how* He is worshipped; He prescribes specific parameters to ensure that worship is conducted with dignity, intentionality, and respect. The prohibition against steps also subtly touches upon the theme of **Distinction from Pagan Practices**, as it contrasts with the often-sensual or immodest rituals associated with other ancient Near Eastern religions. Finally, the concern for "nakedness" introduces the theme of **Covering and Atonement**, foreshadowing the broader need for a divine covering for human sin and shame, a concept that finds its ultimate fulfillment in the sacrificial system and, supremely, in Christ. These themes collectively reinforce the idea that Israel's relationship with God was unique and governed by divine standards of purity and order, as seen throughout [the Mosaic Law](/exodus/21 "Exodus 21 - Laws Concerning Servants").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Go up (Hebrew, עָלָה, _ʻâlâh'_):** This primitive root signifies to ascend, to mount, or to rise. In this context, it specifically refers to the physical act of ascending the altar. The prohibition is not against approaching the altar itself, but against a particular *method* of ascent—one that involves steps. This word emphasizes the vertical dimension of worship, the act of drawing nearer to God's elevated presence, and the divine concern for the manner in which this ascent is performed.
* **Steps (Hebrew, מַעֲלָה, _maʻălâh'_):** Derived from the root for "to ascend," this feminine noun specifically denotes an elevation, a rising, or concretely, a step or staircase. Its explicit prohibition here directly targets the architectural feature of steps leading up to the altar. The implication is that a gradual incline or ramp would be permissible, as it would not create the issue of accidental exposure. The choice of this precise word highlights the practical nature of the divine command, addressing a common construction method that would become problematic in the context of sacred worship.
* **Nakedness (Hebrew, עֶרְוָה, _ʻervâh'_):** This term refers to nudity, specifically the private parts of the body, and often carries connotations of shame, impropriety, or blemish when exposed. In this context, it denotes the accidental or unintentional uncovering of the lower body, particularly the legs or groin area, which would occur if one were to climb steps while wearing the typical priestly tunic. The concern is not with deliberate moral sin or sexual impropriety, but with maintaining physical decorum and preventing any visual distraction or disrespect in the sacred act of worship. It underscores the profound sanctity of the altar and the need for absolute reverence in God's presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Neither shalt thou go up by steps unto mine altar":** This clause presents a direct, negative imperative, unequivocally prohibiting a specific architectural design for the altar. The phrase "mine altar" emphatically asserts God's ownership and the inherent sacredness of the structure, underscoring that its design must conform to His divine standards, not human convenience, aesthetic preference, or pagan custom. The prohibition of steps implies a preferred method of ascent, likely a gentle ramp, which would allow for a more dignified and modest approach, consistent with the sanctity of the worship space.
* **"that thy nakedness be not discovered thereon.":** This clause provides the explicit, practical rationale for the preceding prohibition. The "nakedness" refers to the private parts of the body that might be inadvertently exposed if a priest, wearing a tunic without undergarments, were to ascend steps, causing the garment to lift. The concern is not about deliberate immodesty, but about preventing any accidental visual impropriety or indignity that would detract from the solemnity and holiness of the worship service. It vividly illustrates God's meticulous concern for both the outward appearance and the inward reverence of those who serve Him, ensuring that nothing brings dishonor to His name or His sacred presence.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 20:26, despite its brevity, employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound theological and practical message. The most prominent is **Symbolism**, where the altar itself symbolizes the consecrated boundary between the holy God and sinful humanity, a sacred space where atonement, communion, and divine encounter occur. The meticulous command regarding its approach thus underscores the profound holiness of God and the absolute reverence required to draw near to Him. The phrase "that thy nakedness be not discovered thereon" utilizes **Metonymy**, where "nakedness" stands in for the accidental exposure of the body, highlighting the practical concern for priestly decorum and the avoidance of any visual impropriety. Furthermore, the entire instruction functions as a form of **Legal Precedent**, establishing a foundational principle of modesty, dignity, and reverence in worship that would later be expanded upon in the detailed laws concerning priestly garments and Tabernacle service. The command itself is delivered in the **Imperative Mood**, emphasizing its non-negotiable, divine origin and absolute authority, reflecting God's sovereign right to dictate the terms of His worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 20:26, though seemingly a minor regulation concerning architectural design, profoundly illustrates the character of God and His exacting expectations for His people's worship. It reveals a God who is not merely concerned with the sincerity of the heart but also with the outward expression of reverence, dignity, and purity in His sacred presence. This meticulous attention to detail underscores the absolute holiness of God and the seriousness with which He views all aspects of worship. It teaches that true worship involves our entire being—spirit, soul, and body—and that even seemingly small matters of decorum contribute to honoring the Almighty. The principle of avoiding "nakedness" speaks to the broader theological theme of covering and atonement, foreshadowing the pervasive need for a divine covering for human sin and shame, a concept central to the entire sacrificial system.

* [Exodus 28:42](/exodus/28-42 "Exodus 28:42 - Linen Breeches for Priests"): God later commands the making of linen breeches for the priests to cover their "nakedness" when they minister in the Tabernacle, reinforcing the principle of modesty and decorum in sacred service.
* [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood"): New Testament believers are called a "royal priesthood," implying a spiritual responsibility to approach God with reverence, holiness, and a consciousness of His majesty, even though physical altars are no longer central to Christian worship.
* [Hebrews 12:28-29](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28-29 - Worship with Reverence and Awe"): The New Testament exhorts believers to "worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire," echoing the Old Testament emphasis on God's profound holiness and the seriousness required in all worship.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 20:26 serves as a timeless and profound reminder that our approach to God is of paramount importance. While we no longer offer animal sacrifices on physical altars, the enduring principles of reverence, modesty, intentionality, and dignity in worship remain profoundly relevant for New Covenant believers. As those invited to draw near to God's throne of grace through Christ, our confidence must always be tempered with a deep and abiding awareness of His holiness, majesty, and unapproachable light. Our outward conduct—including our attire, demeanor, posture, and attitude—should consistently reflect our inward reverence for the One we worship. This verse challenges us to consider whether our worship, both corporate and private, truly honors God in every detail, ensuring that nothing in our presentation or posture detracts from the glory due His name. It encourages us to cultivate a spirit of humility, decorum, and careful consideration in all spiritual disciplines, recognizing that every aspect of our lives, especially our worship, is an offering to Him. It prompts us to ask: Are we approaching God with the seriousness and respect His holiness demands?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the seemingly small command in Exodus 20:26 profoundly reveal God's character and His unwavering expectations for worship?**
* **In what practical ways can we, as New Covenant believers, apply the principle of "not discovering nakedness"—that is, maintaining decorum and reverence—in our contemporary worship practices and daily lives?**
* **What does God's meticulous attention to detail in this verse teach us about the importance of intentionality, preparation, and wholeheartedness in our spiritual walk and worship?**
* **How can our outward conduct and attitude in worship more accurately reflect our inward reverence for God, and what might hinder this reflection in our current contexts?**

### FAQ

**Why was it so important to avoid "nakedness" at the altar?**

Answer: The concern was not about moral sin or deliberate immodesty, but primarily about maintaining the utmost dignity, decorum, and sanctity in the presence of a holy God. Priests, wearing only tunics without undergarments, would inadvertently expose their lower bodies (legs or groin area) if they ascended steps, as their garments would naturally lift. This accidental exposure, referred to as "nakedness" (עֶרְוָה, _'ervah'_), would be considered undignified, disrespectful, and potentially distracting in the sacred space where God met His people. The command ensured that nothing would detract from the solemnity and reverence of the worship service. This principle of modesty and decorum in sacred service is later reinforced by God's command for specific [linen breeches for the priests](/exodus/28-42 "Exodus 28:42 - Linen Breeches for Priests") to cover their nakedness during their ministry in the Tabernacle.

**Did all altars in the ancient world have steps?**

Answer: Many altars in the ancient Near East, particularly those associated with pagan worship, were indeed elaborate, elevated structures that often included steps for ascent. The command in [Exodus 20:26](/exodus/20-26 "Exodus 20:26 - No Steps to the Altar") for Israel's altars of earth or unhewn stone (as prescribed in [Exodus 20:24-25](/exodus/20-24-25 "Exodus 20:24-25 - Altars of Earth and Unhewn Stone")) was a deliberate distinction from these pagan practices. It emphasized simplicity, natural materials, and a unique approach to God that prioritized holiness, modesty, and reverence over human grandeur or potentially immodest rituals. The implied alternative to steps was a gentle ramp or incline, which would allow for a dignified and modest ascent without the risk of exposure, thereby maintaining the sanctity of the worship space.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 20:26, with its seemingly specific and practical instruction about altar steps, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. The Old Testament altar, where sacrifices were offered to cover sin and facilitate communion, prefigured the ultimate and perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He is the true [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), offering Himself once for all on the cross, which serves as the true altar of atonement. Just as the Old Testament priests had to approach the physical altar with meticulous reverence and covered "nakedness," signifying the need for purity and a divine covering, so too does humanity now approach God through Christ. Our "nakedness"—our sin, shame, and utter inadequacy before a holy God—is fully and perfectly covered by Christ's imputed righteousness. We no longer need physical altars or an earthly priesthood to mediate, for Christ is our [great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest") who has entered the true, heavenly sanctuary, making a way for us to [draw near to God with a true heart in full assurance of faith](/hebrews/10-22 "Hebrews 10:22 - Drawing Near to God"). The principle of reverence remains, not for a physical structure, but for the holy God whom we now approach through the perfect, complete, and eternally sufficient work of His Son, Jesus, who perfectly fulfilled all righteousness and provided the ultimate, spiritual covering for our every "nakedness."

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

1 Peter 1:16

Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Psalms 89:7

God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all [them that are] about him.

Ecclesiastes 5:1

¶ Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil.

Leviticus 10:3

¶ Then Moses said unto Aaron, This [is it] that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace.

Hebrews 12:28

Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:

Hebrews 12:29

For our God [is] a consuming fire.