The Greek word thysiastḗrion, represented by G2379, defines a place of sacrifice, i.e. an altar. It appears 23 times across 21 unique verses in the Bible. This term is used to describe both literal altars for earthly worship and figurative or heavenly altars that serve as a focal point for divine activity.
In scripture, G2379 is central to acts of worship and sacrifice. It is presented as a physical location within the temple, situated between the temple and the place of holy service (Matthew 23:35; Luke 11:51). The act of bringing a gift G1435 to the altar is used to teach about the importance of reconciliation with one's brother G80 before making an offering Matthew 5:23-24. The altar itself is described as what sanctifieth G37 the gift, making it greater than the offering placed upon it Matthew 23:19. In Revelation, a heavenly altar is a prominent feature, where the souls G5590 of the slain are seen underneath it Revelation 6:9 and from which an angel G32 initiates judgment on the earth G1093 with fire G4442 Revelation 8:5.
Several related words clarify the function and significance of the altar:
- G2378 thysía (sacrifice): As the root concept, this word refers to the offering itself, whether an act or a victim. Those who eat G2068 of the sacrifices are described as partakers G2844 of the altar 1 Corinthians 10:18.
- G1435 dōron (gift): This word describes the offering brought to the altar. The relationship between the gift and the altar that sanctifies it is a key point of teaching Matthew 23:19.
- G2368 thymíama (incense): This refers to the fragrant powder burned in religious service. It is specifically associated with the altar of incense Luke 1:11 and the golden altar before the throne G2362 of God Revelation 8:3.
The theological significance of G2379 is profound, connecting earthly worship with heavenly realities.
- A Place of Consecration: The altar is not merely a platform but a holy place that sanctifieth G37 the gift G1435 offered upon it, establishing its sacred importance in worship Matthew 23:19.
- A Point of Divine Judgment: In Revelation, the heavenly altar is a source of divine action. A voice from the altar proclaims God's judgments as true G228 and righteous G1342 Revelation 16:7, and fire G4442 from the altar is cast upon the earth G1093, bringing thunderings G1027 and lightnings G796 Revelation 8:5.
- The Intersection of Worship and Relationship: The act of approaching the altar is tied to one's moral and relational state. A person must first be reconciled G1259 with their brother G80 before presenting a gift G1435, linking right worship with right relationships Matthew 5:24.
- Access and Service: Service at the altar defines a specific role of ministry. In the Old Covenant, attendance at the altar was restricted to a particular tribe G5443 Hebrews 7:13, while under the New Covenant, believers have G2192 an altar from which those who serve the tabernacle G4633 have no right G1849 to eat G5315 Hebrews 13:10.
In summary, G2379 signifies much more than a physical structure. It is the designated place for sacrifice and offering, both on earth and in heaven. It functions as a point of consecration, a place where human reconciliation is required for acceptable worship, and a source from which divine judgment proceeds. The altar stands as a powerful symbol of the intersection between God and humanity.
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