Exodus 38:4 (KJV)

What does Exodus 38:4 mean?

Exodus 38:4 describes how a bronze grate made of interwoven metal was constructed for the altar, positioned underneath its rim and reaching about halfway up the altar. This detail is part of the instructions for building the altar used for sacrifices in the tabernacle.

In this verse, the craftsman Bezalel is following Moses’ instructions for constructing the altar as part of the tabernacle’s furnishings. The “brasen grate of network” refers to a metal lattice or mesh, which would allow ashes to fall through and air to circulate under the fire. The description shows careful attention to both function and design in the altar’s construction.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 38:4

• “brasen” (נְחֹשֶׁת, nechoshet): This word means “bronze” or “copper,” emphasizing the altar’s durability and resistance to heat, which was necessary for its use in burning sacrifices.
• “grate” (מִכְבָּר, mikhbar): This refers to a lattice or meshwork, highlighting that the altar was not a solid block but had a structured, open design to support burning offerings.
• “network” (מַעֲשֵׂה רֶשֶׁת, ma’aseh reshet): This phrase means “work of netting,” reinforcing the idea that the grate was woven or interlaced, not just a flat sheet, allowing for practical airflow and ash removal.
• “compass” (כַּרְכֹּב, karkov): This word means “rim” or “border,” clarifying that the grate was placed below the edge or ledge of the altar, not at the very bottom.

Why Exodus 38:4 matters

• This verse clarifies that the altar’s design was both practical and symbolic, with features like the grate ensuring sacrifices could be properly burned and maintained.
• The construction details show the Israelites’ careful obedience to God’s instructions, which were given earlier in Exodus, highlighting the importance of following divine directions precisely.
• Understanding the placement and function of the grate helps readers picture how sacrifices were managed and how the altar worked within the daily life of the tabernacle.