Neither shalt thou go up by steps unto mine altar, that thy nakedness be not discovered thereon.

EXODUS 20:26KJV
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Exodus 20:26 (KJV)

What does Exodus 20:26 mean?

Exodus 20:26 instructs that no one should go up to God’s altar by steps, so that their nakedness is not exposed. This command is about how the altar is approached, emphasizing modesty and respect in worship.

God is speaking to Moses, giving instructions for building and using the altar after giving the Ten Commandments. In ancient times, priests wore long robes, and walking up steps could reveal their bodies in ways considered improper. This verse highlights the importance of reverence and dignity in approaching God, even in practical details.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 20:26

  • "steps" (מַעֲלָה, ma‘ălāh): This word means steps or stairs. Its use here shows that the altar was not to be approached by climbing, which could lead to exposure.
  • "nakedness" (עֶרְוָה, ‘ervāh): This word refers to nakedness or private parts. The concern is about accidental exposure, not intentional indecency.
  • "discovered" (גָּלָה, gālāh): This means to uncover or reveal. The verse uses it to stress that nothing shameful should be seen when approaching the altar.

Why Exodus 20:26 matters

  • Exodus 20:26 clarifies that God’s instructions cover not just rituals but also the manner and attitude of worship, including modesty and respect.
  • This verse helps explain why later priestly garments included special undergarments (see Exodus 28:42), showing a consistent concern for dignity.
  • It connects to the wider passage by showing that holiness in worship involves both the heart and outward actions, down to the smallest details.

Where else these words appear

“steps” Hebrew H4609 · used in 39 verses

  • 1 Kings 10:19 The throne had six steps, and the top of the throne was round behind: and there were stays on either side on the place of the seat, and two lions stood beside the stays.
  • Psalms 120:1 A Song of degrees. In my distress I cried unto the LORD, and he heard me.
  • Psalms 133:1 A Song of degrees of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

“nakedness” Hebrew H6172 · used in 40 verses

  • Genesis 9:22 And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father, and told his two brethren without.
  • Leviticus 18:14 Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy father's brother, thou shalt not approach to his wife: she is thine aunt.
  • Deuteronomy 24:1 When a man hath taken a wife, and married her, and it come to pass that she find no favour in his eyes, because he hath found some uncleanness in her: then let him write her a bill of divorcement, and give it in her hand, and send her out of his house.