Exodus 35:16

KJV

The altar of burnt offering, with his brasen grate, his staves, and all his vessels, the laver and his foot,

KJV (with Strong's)

The altar {H4196} of burnt offering {H5930}, with his brasen {H5178} grate {H4345}, his staves {H905}, and all his vessels {H3627}, the laver {H3595} and his foot {H3653},

Complete Jewish Bible

the altar for burnt offerings, with its poles and all its utensils; the basin with its base;

Berean Standard Bible

the altar of burnt offering with its bronze grate, its poles, and all its utensils; the basin with its stand;

American Standard Version

the altar of burnt-offering, with its grating of brass, its staves, and all its vessels, the laver and its base;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 35:16 meticulously lists essential furnishings for the Tabernacle's outer courtyard: the altar of burnt offering with its associated parts, and the laver with its base. This verse is part of Moses' detailed instructions to the Israelites for constructing the portable sanctuary, underscoring God's precise requirements for His dwelling place and the divinely ordained means by which a holy God would be approached by a sinful people through atonement and purification.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 35:16 is situated within the broader narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, following the detailed architectural blueprints given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25-31 - Tabernacle Instructions"). After the tragic interlude of the golden calf incident in [Exodus 32](/exodus/32 "Exodus 32 - The Golden Calf"), and Moses' subsequent intercession and renewal of the covenant in [Exodus 33-34](/exodus/33 "Exodus 33-34 - Moses' Intercession and Covenant Renewal"), the focus returns to the Tabernacle. Moses convenes the assembly of Israel in [Exodus 35:1-3](/exodus/35-1 "Exodus 35:1-3 - Sabbath Command") to reiterate the Sabbath command, then issues a call for freewill offerings for the Tabernacle's construction in [Exodus 35:4-9](/exodus/35-4 "Exodus 35:4-9 - Call for Offerings"). Verses [Exodus 35:10-19](/exodus/35-10 "Exodus 35:10-19 - Summary of Tabernacle Components") then provide a comprehensive summary of all the items to be made, serving as a checklist for the skilled artisans. Our verse, [Exodus 35:16](/exodus/35-16 "Exodus 35:16 - Tabernacle Furnishings List"), specifically details the components of the courtyard, highlighting their importance as the initial points of interaction for those approaching God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Israelites, recently liberated from Egyptian bondage, were a nomadic people journeying through the wilderness. The Tabernacle served as the physical manifestation of God's presence among them, a portable temple that moved with the camp. In the ancient Near East, temples were central to a nation's identity and worship, believed to be the dwelling places of their gods. For Israel, the Tabernacle uniquely symbolized Yahweh's covenant faithfulness and His immanence, distinguishing Him from the pagan deities. The items listed in [Exodus 35:16](/exodus/35-16 "Exodus 35:16 - Altar and Laver")—the altar and the laver—were not merely functional but deeply symbolic within the Israelite sacrificial system. The altar was the site of blood atonement, a concept foundational to their understanding of sin and forgiveness, as detailed in [Leviticus](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus - Laws of Sacrifice and Purity"). The laver, for priestly ablutions, underscored the absolute necessity of ritual purity for those ministering in God's holy presence, a common theme in ancient religious practices but uniquely commanded by God for His priests. These elements collectively established the prescribed means by which a holy God could dwell among and be approached by an imperfect people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Altar of burnt offering (מִזְבַּח הָעֹלָה, _mizbeach ha'olah_):** The Hebrew term _mizbeach_ (מִזְבַּח) means "slaughter place" or "altar," derived from a root meaning "to slaughter." The accompanying _olah_ (עֹלָה) refers to a "burnt offering" or "whole burnt offering," from the root meaning "to ascend," indicating that the entire sacrifice was consumed by fire and ascended to God as a pleasing aroma. This altar, located in the outer courtyard, was the primary site for animal sacrifices, symbolizing the essential act of atonement for sin through the shedding of blood and the complete dedication of the offering to God.
* **Brasen grate (מִכְבָּר נְחֹשֶׁת, _mikbar nechoshet_):** The _mikbar_ (מִכְבָּר) is a "grate" or "network," and _nechoshet_ (נְחֹשֶׁת) means "bronze" or "copper." This bronze grating was placed inside the altar, designed to hold the sacrificial offerings above the fire, allowing ashes and fat to fall through to the bottom. Its mention emphasizes the meticulous design of the altar, ensuring proper combustion and disposal of sacrificial remnants, vital for the efficient and ritually clean operation of the sacrificial system.
* **Laver (כִּיּוֹר, _kiyor_):** The _kiyor_ (כִּיּוֹר) refers to a "basin" or "laver," specifically designed for washing. This large bronze basin, also located in the outer courtyard between the altar and the Tabernacle entrance, was used by the priests to wash their hands and feet before ministering. Its purpose was ceremonial purification, highlighting the absolute necessity of ritual cleanliness and holiness for those who would serve in the presence of God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The altar of burnt offering":** This identifies the central piece of furniture in the Tabernacle's outer courtyard. It was a large, hollow square structure made of acacia wood overlaid with bronze, where animal sacrifices were offered. Its primary function was to facilitate atonement for the sins of the people and the priests, symbolizing God's provision for dealing with sin through substitutionary sacrifice. It was the first point of approach for anyone seeking to draw near to God.
* **"with his brasen grate, his staves, and all his vessels":** This clause details the essential components associated with the altar. The "brasen grate" was crucial for the efficient burning of sacrifices. The "staves" (poles) were for carrying the altar, emphasizing its portability as the Israelites journeyed. "All his vessels" refers to the various bronze implements used in the sacrificial process, such as pans for ashes, shovels, basins for catching blood, and forks for handling meat. This comprehensive listing underscores the completeness and functionality of God's design, ensuring that every aspect of the sacrificial ritual could be performed precisely as commanded.
* **"the laver and his foot":** This refers to the second major piece of courtyard furniture. The "laver" was a large bronze basin filled with water, used by the priests (Aaron and his sons) for washing their hands and feet before entering the Holy Place or approaching the altar to minister ([Exodus 30:17-21](/exodus/30-17 "Exodus 30:17-21 - The Laver's Purpose")). This act of washing symbolized the required purification and holiness for those serving God. The "foot" refers to its base or stand, providing stability for the heavy basin, again highlighting the practical and complete nature of the divine blueprint.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 35:16 employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and significance. **Merism** is evident in the listing of specific parts ("brasen grate, his staves, and all his vessels," "the laver and his foot") to represent the entirety of the altar and laver's accessories. This detailed enumeration emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's instructions and the meticulousness required in the Tabernacle's construction, leaving no room for human improvisation. **Metonymy** is also present, where the furnishings themselves stand for their function; the "altar of burnt offering" is not just a structure but represents the entire system of atonement and sacrifice, and the "laver" represents the principle of purification. Finally, profound **Symbolism** permeates the verse. The altar symbolizes the necessity of atonement and the shedding of blood for the remission of sins, while the laver symbolizes the need for spiritual cleansing and purity before approaching a holy God. These devices work together to reinforce the divine precision, the sacred purpose, and the theological depth embedded in every detail of the Tabernacle's construction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 35:16, by detailing the altar of burnt offering and the laver, powerfully encapsulates core theological truths central to Israel's covenant relationship with God. The altar signifies the absolute necessity of blood atonement for sin, establishing that reconciliation with a holy God is impossible without a divinely provided sacrifice. It points to the principle that "without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness" ([Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Necessity of Blood")). The laver, on the other hand, highlights the equally vital need for purification and sanctification. It teaches that even after atonement, those who serve God must continually be cleansed, emphasizing the ongoing process of spiritual washing and holiness required for intimate fellowship and effective ministry. Together, these two pieces of furniture illustrate the dual aspects of God's provision for human sin and impurity: the once-for-all sacrifice for guilt and the continuous cleansing for daily living.

* [Leviticus 16:16](/leviticus/16-16 "Leviticus 16:16 - Atonement for the Holy Place")
* [Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Blood for Forgiveness")
* [Ephesians 5:26](/ephesians/5-26 "Ephesians 5:26 - Christ Cleansing the Church")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous details of Exodus 35:16, far from being mere architectural specifications, serve as profound spiritual lessons for believers today. They remind us that God is a God of order, precision, and holiness, who desires to be approached on His terms. The altar, with its call for sacrifice, compels us to reflect on the immense cost of our sin and the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which fully atoned for us. We no longer offer animal sacrifices, but we are called to live lives of gratitude, presenting ourselves as "living sacrifices" ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifice")). The laver, demanding priestly cleansing, speaks to our ongoing need for purification. While Christ has made us positionally holy, we are still called to walk in daily repentance, confessing our sins, and allowing the Word of God and the Holy Spirit to cleanse and sanctify us, enabling us to draw near to God with clean hands and a pure heart. This verse thus challenges us to consider both the completed work of Christ on the cross and the continuing work of sanctification in our lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail in God's instructions for the Tabernacle furnishings, as seen in this verse, inform your understanding of God's character?**
* **In what ways do the functions of the altar and the laver prefigure the work of Christ in your life?**
* **What "cleansing" is necessary in your daily walk with God, and how do you actively pursue it?**
* **How does understanding the Tabernacle's purpose deepen your appreciation for the accessibility to God we now have through Christ?**

### FAQ
**Why are these specific details about the altar and laver so important to God?**

Answer: These details are crucial because they underscore God's absolute holiness, His meticulous nature, and His desire for worship to be conducted precisely according to His divine will. Every component of the Tabernacle and its furnishings was designed to teach Israel profound spiritual truths about sin, atonement, and purification. The Tabernacle was not merely a building but a living parable, a "copy and shadow of what is in heaven" ([Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "Hebrews 8:5 - Pattern of Heavenly Things")). The precision ensured that the people understood the gravity of approaching a holy God and the specific, divinely ordained means by which they could do so. It also prevented human innovation or syncretism with pagan practices.

**What is the significance of the "brasen grate" and "laver's foot" being mentioned specifically?**

Answer: The specific mention of the "brasen grate" and "laver's foot" highlights the completeness and functionality of God's design. The "brasen grate" was not just an accessory but an essential part of the altar's operation, ensuring the proper burning of the sacrifices. The "laver's foot" provided the necessary stability for the heavy basin, without which it could not serve its purpose. Their inclusion demonstrates that God's instructions were exhaustive, covering not just the main items but every necessary component, no matter how seemingly small, to ensure the Tabernacle's full operational integrity and ritual correctness. It teaches us that every detail in God's plan has purpose and significance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 35:16, with its focus on the altar of burnt offering and the laver, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The altar, where blood was shed for atonement, powerfully foreshadows the cross of Calvary, where the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") offered Himself as the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice for the sins of humanity. Unlike the repeated animal sacrifices that could never truly take away sins, Christ's single offering "perfected for all time those who are being sanctified" ([Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Sanctified Through Christ's Offering")). The laver, symbolizing the need for priestly washing and purification, points to the spiritual cleansing we receive through Christ. Through His atoning work, we are not only forgiven but also cleansed from all unrighteousness ([1_john/1-7](/1-john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Blood of Jesus Cleanses")). This cleansing is both a regenerative washing at conversion ([Titus 3:5](/titus/3-5 "Titus 3:5 - Washing of Regeneration")) and an ongoing sanctification through the "washing of water with the word" ([Ephesians 5:26-27](/ephesians/5-26 "Ephesians 5:26-27 - Christ Cleansing the Church")), enabling us to draw near to God with confidence, having been made holy and blameless in Him. Thus, the Tabernacle's courtyard furnishings beautifully illustrate the two indispensable aspects of salvation in Christ: His propitiatory sacrifice and His purifying power.

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.