What does Exodus 27:5 mean?
ESV: And you shall set it under the ledge of the altar so that the net extends halfway down the altar.
NIV: Put it under the ledge of the altar so that it is halfway up the altar.
NASB: And you shall put it under the ledge of the altar, so that the netting will reach halfway up the altar.
CSB: Set it below, under the altar’s ledge, so that the mesh comes halfway up the altar.
NLT: Install the grating halfway down the side of the altar, under the ledge.
KJV: And thou shalt put it under the compass of the altar beneath, that the net may be even to the midst of the altar.
NKJV: You shall put it under the rim of the altar beneath, that the network may be midway up the altar.
Verse Commentary:
Verse Context:
Exodus 27:1–8 records the construction of a bronze sacrificial altar. Israel is to make this of acacia wood overlaid with bronze. Four "horns" protrude from the corners. A grating sits inside and halfway up the altar's height. This altar is carried with bronze-coated poles. This will be known as the "altar of burnt offering" (Leviticus 4:7; 16:18) and placed directly inside the courtyard of the tabernacle.
Chapter Summary:
This passage describes more components of the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8–9). These include a bronze altar for burnt sacrifices. The tabernacle itself (Exodus 26) sits inside a courtyard marked by hanging linens. This area is also home to a basin to be explained later (Exodus 30:17–18).
Chapter Context:
The Lord is describing the sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9) and sacred objects which Israel is to build. Chapter 25 included the ark, a sacred table, and a lampstand. Chapter 26 described the tabernacle itself, made of wooden scaffolds, linen, and animal skins. This passage depicts the bronze altar, courtyard walls, and lamp oil. Future chapters will discuss priestly concerns, an incense altar, and other regulations.
Book Summary:
The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.
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