### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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.
TRV