Mizbeach – A Deeper Look

The Hebrew word מזבח derives from the word זבח denoting the slaughtering of an animal for sacrifice. Also, the Hebrew word can be seen as an acrostic of מחילה זכות ברכה חיים (Forgiveness, Merit, Blessing, Life).

The Mizbeach was the scene of three constant miracles:

1. The fire burned on the Mizbeach day and night, yet it did not burn through the copper place or char the wood under the plating.
2. The Mizbeach was in the open courtyard in the Bais haMikdash, yet the rain never extinguished the fire.
3. The smoke on the Mizbeach went straight up like a pillar, not affected by the wind.

The Altar serves as a connection between HaShem and the Jewish people. From one view, the Altar symbolizes Adam HaElyon (the supernal Man), with the fire from Heaven as one example. From the other view, the Altar symbolizes Adam Tachton (the flawed person) who can elevate the hidden sparks in this lower world, with the Altar resting on the ground and subject to being hewn.