King James Version

What Does Exodus 27:3 Mean?

“And thou shalt make his pans to receive his ashes, and his shovels, and his basons, and his fleshhooks, and his firepans: all the vessels thereof thou shalt make of brass.”

Context

And thou shalt make an altar of shittim wood, five cubits long, and five cubits broad; the altar shall be foursquare: and the height thereof shall be three cubits.

And thou shalt make the horns of it upon the four corners thereof: his horns shall be of the same: and thou shalt overlay it with brass.

And thou shalt make his pans to receive his ashes, and his shovels, and his basons, and his fleshhooks, and his firepans: all the vessels thereof thou shalt make of brass.

And thou shalt make for it a grate of network of brass; and upon the net shalt thou make four brasen rings in the four corners thereof.

And thou shalt put it under the compass of the altar beneath, that the net may be even to the midst of the altar.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(3) **His pans to receive his ashes.**—Scuttles, in which the ashes were placed for removal from the sanctuary, are intended. The word translated “to receive his ashes” is a rare one, and implies a mixture with the ashes of unburnt fat. **His shovels.**—A right rendering. The “shovels” would be used in clearing away the ashes from off the altar. **His basons.**—Basins were needed to receive the blood of the victims (Exodus 24:6), which was cast from basins upon the foot of the altar. **His fleshhooks.**—Implements with three prongs, used for arranging the pieces of the victim upon the altar. The priests’ servants sometimes applied them to a different purpose (1Samuel 2:13). **His firepans.**—The word here used is elsewhere translated either *“*snuffdishes,” or *“*censers.” Probably vessels employed in carrying embers from the brazen altar to the altar of incense (Leviticus 16:12) are intended.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 27:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.