Exodus 27:4
And thou shalt make for it a grate of network of brass; and upon the net shalt thou make four brasen rings in the four corners thereof.
Original Language Analysis
וְעָשִׂ֣יתָ
And thou shalt make
H6213
וְעָשִׂ֣יתָ
And thou shalt make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 15
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
מַֽעֲשֵׂ֖ה
of network
H4639
מַֽעֲשֵׂ֖ה
of network
Strong's:
H4639
Word #:
4 of 15
an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property
נְחֹ֔שֶׁת
brasen
H5178
נְחֹ֔שֶׁת
brasen
Strong's:
H5178
Word #:
6 of 15
copper, hence, something made of that metal, i.e., coin, a fetter; figuratively, base (as compared with gold or silver)
וְעָשִׂ֣יתָ
And thou shalt make
H6213
וְעָשִׂ֣יתָ
And thou shalt make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
7 of 15
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
8 of 15
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
טַבְּעֹ֣ת
rings
H2885
טַבְּעֹ֣ת
rings
Strong's:
H2885
Word #:
11 of 15
properly, a seal (as sunk into the wax), i.e., signet (for sealing); hence (generally) a ring of any kind
נְחֹ֔שֶׁת
brasen
H5178
נְחֹ֔שֶׁת
brasen
Strong's:
H5178
Word #:
12 of 15
copper, hence, something made of that metal, i.e., coin, a fetter; figuratively, base (as compared with gold or silver)
Historical Context
The grate (מִכְבָּר, mikhbar) was a mesh or network positioned inside the altar at half-height, creating an air space beneath for better burning. This design ensured offerings were completely consumed, fulfilling God's command for whole burnt offerings.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the altar's design for 'complete combustion' illustrate Christ's total sacrifice?
- What does the bronze grate 'supporting' the sacrifice teach about judgment's necessity in atonement?
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Analysis & Commentary
A grate (network) of bronze holds the sacrifice, with bronze rings at its four corners. This grate sits below the altar's top, allowing ashes to fall through while supporting the burning sacrifice. The open network permits air circulation, enabling complete combustion—total consumption of the offering. Christ's sacrifice was complete, exhaustive, holding back nothing. The bronze rings again emphasize universality (four corners) and judgment (bronze) character.