Exodus 37:25 Meaning and Explanation
“And he made the incense altar of shittim wood: the length of it was a cubit, and the breadth of it a cubit; it was foursquare; and two cubits was the height of it; the horns thereof were of the same.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A square wooden incense altar was constructed with specific dimensions and projections at its four corners.
The Context of Exodus 37:25
The construction now turns to the Incense Altar, used for burning fragrant offerings.
What Does Exodus 37:25 Mean?
The incense altar was a small furnishing compared to the larger pieces, but highly significant in function. Its cube-like shape (one cubit square, two cubits high) gave it a distinctive form. The horns—small projections at each corner—served both structural and symbolic functions. These corners could be grasped for carrying and represented the altar's strength and permanence.
The wood used was again acacia (shittim), creating material consistency across the tabernacle's furnishings. The altar's compact size and high proportion made it visually distinctive. Though smaller than the Table of Showbread or the Ark, the incense altar held supreme importance in daily priestly service, as the smoke of incense represented Israel's prayers rising to God.
Exodus 37:25 in the Original Language
Mizbeach (מִזְבֵּחַ), 'altar' — from the root meaning to slaughter or sacrifice; though this altar was for incense rather than animal sacrifice, it remained a place of offering and connection with God.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 37:25
What does Exodus 37:25 mean?
A square wooden incense altar was constructed with specific dimensions and projections at its four corners.
What is the context of Exodus 37:25?
The construction now turns to the Incense Altar, used for burning fragrant offerings.