### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mizbêach**, represented by `{{H4196}}`, is the primary term for an **altar**. Derived from the root word `{{H2076}}` **zâbach**, meaning to sacrifice, it appears **402 times** in **338 unique verses**. It designates a consecrated structure built for offering sacrifices, making atonement, and establishing a place of worship and communion with God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H4196}}` is used in various significant contexts. After the flood, Noah built an **altar** to the LORD and offered burnt offerings on it [[Genesis 8:20]]. Patriarchs like Abram and Jacob also built altars as acts of worship and to mark places of divine encounter ([[Genesis 12:7]], [[Genesis 35:3]]). In the Law of Moses, the **altar** became central to Israel's sacrificial system, with specific instructions for its construction and use for burnt offerings, peace offerings, and making atonement for sin ([[Exodus 20:24]], [[Leviticus 17:11]]). The term is also used for the profane altars of idol worship, which Israel was commanded to destroy ([[Exodus 34:13]], [[Judges 2:2]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the activities surrounding the altar:
* `{{H2076}}` **zâbach** (to slaughter an animal): This is the root verb from which **mizbêach** is derived. It describes the act of sacrifice performed upon the altar [[Exodus 20:24]].
* `{{H2077}}` **zebach** (a sacrifice): This noun refers to the victim or the act of slaughter itself. Sacrifices were to be accepted upon God's **altar** [[Isaiah 56:7]].
* `{{H5930}}` **ʻôlâh** (burnt offering): A primary type of sacrifice completely consumed by fire upon the **altar**, signifying total dedication to God [[Leviticus 9:24]].
* `{{H6999}}` **qâṭar** (to burn): This word describes the act of burning sacrifices or incense upon the **altar**, creating a sweet savour unto the LORD [[Leviticus 4:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4196}}` is foundational to understanding worship and redemption in the Old Testament.
* **Atonement and Forgiveness:** The **altar** is the designated place where blood is applied to make atonement for souls. Life is in the blood, and its placement on the altar was given by God for the forgiveness of sin ([[Leviticus 17:11]], [[Leviticus 4:35]]).
* **Divine Presence and Communion:** Building an **altar** established a place for God to meet with His people. God promised to come and bless His people at the places where He recorded His name, which were marked by an **altar** [[Exodus 20:24]]. For the psalmist, the **altar** was a source of exceeding joy [[Psalms 43:4]].
* **Intercession:** The **altar** served as a place of solemn prayer and intercession. The priests were to weep between the porch and the **altar**, pleading for God to spare His people [[Joel 2:17]].
* **Consecration and Judgment:** An **altar** could be a symbol of true devotion, named "Jehovahnissi" (The LORD is my banner) or "Jehovahshalom" (The LORD is peace) ([[Exodus 17:15]], [[Judges 6:24]]). Conversely, profane altars were objects of divine judgment, destined for destruction ([[Hosea 10:8]], [[Amos 3:14]]).
### Summary
In summary, **mizbêach** `{{H4196}}` is far more than a simple structure. It is a central element of biblical worship, representing the critical meeting point between God and humanity. It is the place of sacrifice, the means of atonement, the focus of communion, and a symbol of both righteous devotion and idolatrous rebellion. From the patriarchal memorials to the intricate system of the tabernacle and temple, the **altar** stands as a powerful testament to the necessity of sacrifice in approaching a holy God.
TRV