share torah logo

Exodus 27:2 - Altar's sacred horned corners

Exodus 27:2 - שמות 27:2

Hebrew Text

וְעָשִׂיתָ קַרְנֹתָיו עַל אַרְבַּע פִּנֹּתָיו מִמֶּנּוּ תִּהְיֶיןָ קַרְנֹתָיו וְצִפִּיתָ אֹתוֹ נְחֹשֶׁת׃

English Translation

And thou shalt make the horns of it upon its four corners: its horns shall be of the same: and thou shalt overlay it with brass.

Transliteration

Ve'asita karnotav al arba pinotav mimeno tihyena karnotav ve'tzipita oto nechoshet.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְעָשִׂ֣יתָ קַרְנֹתָ֗יו עַ֚ל אַרְבַּ֣ע פִּנֹּתָ֔יו מִמֶּ֖נּוּ תִּהְיֶ֣יןָ קַרְנֹתָ֑יו וְצִפִּיתָ֥ אֹת֖וֹ נְחֹֽשֶׁת׃
וְעָשִׂ֣יתָ קַרְנֹתָ֗יו עַ֚ל אַרְבַּ֣ע פִּנֹּתָ֔יו מִמֶּ֖נּוּ תִּהְיֶ֣יןָ קַרְנֹתָ֑יו וְצִפִּיתָ֥ אֹת֖וֹ נְחֹֽשֶׁת׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Exodus 27:2) describes the construction of the mizbe'ach (altar) for the Mishkan (Tabernacle). The horns (karnot) were protrusions on the four corners of the altar, made from the same material as the altar itself and overlaid with copper (nechoshet).

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Exodus 27:2) explains that the horns were an integral part of the altar, formed from the same block of material rather than being attached separately. He notes that the word mimenu ("from it") emphasizes this unity. Rashi also cites the Talmud (Zevachim 53b), which states that the horns had halachic significance—specifically, that the blood of certain sacrifices was applied to them.

Symbolism of the Horns

  • Strength and Elevation: The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 34:3) associates horns with strength and elevation, symbolizing that the altar elevates the offerings to Hashem.
  • Merit of the Avot: Some commentators (e.g., Kli Yakar) suggest the four horns represent the merit of the Patriarchs (Avraham, Yitzchak, Yaakov, and David), whose righteousness supports the Jewish people.
  • Divine Protection: The Talmud (Sukkah 49a) teaches that the horns serve as a refuge—one who grasped them in repentance would be granted protection.

Halachic Significance

The Rambam (Hilchos Beis HaBechirah 2:5-7) details the practical halachos of the altar's horns, including their dimensions and the requirement that they be squarely positioned. The Mishnah (Zevachim 5:3) further explains that the horns were essential for certain korbanot (offerings), such as the chatas (sin offering), where blood was applied to them.

Material: Copper Overlay

The copper overlay (nechoshet) is interpreted by the Chizkuni as a practical measure to protect the altar from fire damage. The Sforno adds that copper symbolizes durability and judgment, reflecting the altar's role in atonement and divine service.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Zevachim 53b
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the construction and dimensions of the altar, specifically regarding the horns of the altar and their overlay with brass.
📖 Menachot 97b
The verse is cited in the context of discussing the materials and construction details of the altar, emphasizing the requirement for the horns to be made from the same material as the altar and overlaid with brass.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the 'horns' mentioned in Exodus 27:2?
A: The 'horns' (קַרְנֹתָיו) in Exodus 27:2 refer to the four raised corners on the altar (מִזְבֵּחַ) in the Tabernacle. According to Rashi, these horns were hollow and made as extensions of the altar itself (מִמֶּנּוּ תִּהְיֶיןָ - 'from it they shall be'). They had practical and symbolic significance in the sacrificial service.
Q: Why was the altar overlaid with brass (נְחֹשֶׁת)?
A: The altar was overlaid with brass (copper) because it needed to withstand the heat of the constant fires used for sacrifices. The Rambam (Hilchot Beit HaBechirah 2:10) explains that metals like brass were durable for this purpose. Additionally, brass symbolizes strength and judgment in Jewish tradition, fitting for the altar's role in atonement.
Q: What is the significance of the altar having four corners?
A: The four corners of the altar represent the four directions of the world, symbolizing that the altar's service (and by extension, the opportunity for repentance and connection to Hashem) is accessible to all people from every direction. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 12:4) also connects the four horns to the four matriarchs (Sarah, Rivkah, Rachel, and Leah), emphasizing the altar's role in mercy.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today without the Temple?
A: While we no longer have the physical altar, the Talmud (Berachot 26b) teaches that prayer replaces the sacrifices. The horns of the altar remind us to direct our prayers (like the sacrifices) with focus and sincerity from all 'corners' of our lives. The brass overlay also teaches resilience in our spiritual service, enduring challenges like metal endures fire.