The meaning of “θυσιαστήριον”
Understanding thysiastḗrion reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
altar. - a place of sacrifice, i.e. an altar (special or genitive case, literal or figurative)
θυσιαστήριον
altar. - a place of sacrifice, i.e. an altar (special or genitive case, literal or figurative)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 23:19 | “Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?” Word: θυσιαστήριον (thysiastḗrion) | |
| Luke 11:51 | “From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, It shall be required of this generation.” Word: θυσιαστήριον (thysiastḗrion) | |
| Romans 11:3 | “Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life.” Word: θυσιαστήριον (thysiastḗrion) | |
| 1 Corinthians 10:18 | “Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?” Word: θυσιαστήριον (thysiastḗrion) | |
| Hebrews 13:10 | “We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle.” Word: θυσιαστήριον (thysiastḗrion) |
Usage Statistics
Theological Word Study: Altar
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Altar, place of sacrifice
The Hebrew mizbeach (מִזְבֵּחַ) means altar—from the root 'to slaughter.' Altars were places where sacrifices were offered to God, pointing forward to Christ's ultimate sacrifice.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Altar
The Greek thusiastērion (θυσιαστήριον) denotes an altar for sacrifice. Hebrews 13:10 declares 'We have an altar' from which temple priests cannot eat—referring to Christ's sacrifice outside the camp.