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Bible Terms and Customs

Altar. An erection of stones usually set square in which sacrifices were burnt. The first altar mentioned in the Bibel was erected by Abel. The Hebrew altar was made of unhewn stones and without steps, as commanded by God. The worshippers of Baal built their altars on mountain tops, hence "altars on high places" were an abomination to the Lord. In the Temple at Jerusalem the altar of burnt sacrifice was outside the Holy Place, in the court in front of it, but the altar of incense stood in the centre of it.