Exodus 27:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 27:2
2 And thou shalt make the horns of it upon the four corners thereof: his horns shall be of the same: and thou shalt overlay it with brass.
Chapter Context
Exodus 27 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of hope, grace, righteousness. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 27:2
2 And thou shalt make the horns of it upon the four corners thereof: his horns shall be of the same: and thou shalt overlay it with brass.
Analysis
Four horns at the altar's corners, all one piece with it, overlaid with bronze. Horns in Scripture symbolize power and strength (Psalm 18:2); the altar's horns represent salvation's power—refuge for those grasping them (1 Kings 1:50-51). The four corners suggest universal availability—salvation extends to earth's four corners. That horns are one piece with the altar shows power inherent in the cross itself, not added externally. Christ's atonement contains intrinsic saving power.
Historical Context
Sacrificial blood was applied to the horns (Leviticus 4:7), symbolizing the covenant being 'bound' to the altar. Those seeking sanctuary could grasp the horns, trusting in the altar's protection—prefiguring our grasping Christ's cross for salvation.
Reflection
- How do the altar's horns represent both God's power to save and the cross's inherent strength?
- What does 'grasping the horns' teach about actively laying hold of Christ's atonement?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 29:12, Leviticus 4:7, 1 Kings 1:50, Psalms 118:27