Exodus 27:2 - Exposition

The horns of it . Literally, "its horns." Horns were not usual adjuncts of altars; indeed they seem to have been peculiar to those of the Israelites. They were projections at the four top comers, probably not unlike the horns of bulls, whence their name. Criminals clung to them when they took sanctuary ( 1 Kings 1:50 ; 1 Kings 2:28 ); and the blood of sin-offerings was smeared upon them ( Exodus 29:12 ; Le Exodus 8:15 ; Exodus 9:9 ; Exodus 16:18 , etc.). Victims also were sometimes, when about to be sacrificed, bound to them ( Psalms 118:27 ). According to Kalisch, "The horns were symbolical of power, of protection and help; and at the same time of glory and salvation." His horns shall be of the same . Part and parcel of the altar, that is, not extraneous additions. Thou shalt overlay it with brass . A solid plating of bronze is no doubt intended, such as would protect the shittim wood and prevent it from being burnt.