And there shalt thou build an altar unto the LORD thy God, an altar of stones: thou shalt not lift up any iron tool upon them.

DEUTERONOMY 27:5KJV
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Deuteronomy 27:5 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 27:5 mean?

Deuteronomy 27:5 instructs the Israelites to build an altar to the LORD their God using stones, and specifically tells them not to use any iron tool on the stones. The verse emphasizes that the altar should be made from uncut, natural stones rather than stones shaped or altered by human tools.

Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the land of Canaan. He gives detailed instructions for building an altar on Mount Ebal, where they will offer sacrifices to God. The command not to use iron tools highlights a desire for simplicity and perhaps a separation from practices used in idol worship or other cultures, focusing on honoring God with what He has made.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 27:5

  • "build" (בָּנָה, banah): This word means to construct or establish. Here, it refers to the physical act of putting together the altar, not just a spiritual idea.
  • "altar" (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach): This is the specific Hebrew term for an altar, a place for offering sacrifices. The repetition in the verse underscores the importance of the altar’s construction.
  • "stones" (אֶבֶן, eben): The use of this word makes clear that the altar is to be made from simple, natural stones, not bricks or other materials.
  • "iron" (בַּרְזֶל, barzel): This word refers to iron, a common material for tools. The instruction not to use iron tools suggests a deliberate avoidance of altering the stones, which may have spiritual or symbolic significance.

Why Deuteronomy 27:5 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the altar for worshiping God was to be made in a way that avoided human pride or craftsmanship, focusing instead on what God had already created.
  • The instruction connects to other passages where uncut stones are used for altars, showing a consistent pattern in Israelite worship.
  • By specifying the use of natural stones and the absence of iron tools, the verse sets Israelite worship apart from the practices of surrounding nations, which often involved elaborate altars and idols.