Exodus 27: The Bronze Altar

The blueprint for the bronze altar is given to Moses in verses 1-8.  The altar is where the burnt offerings will take place.  As such, it is a holy instrument.  As with the other parts of the Tabernacle, God commands Moses to have it constructed precisely as it is revealed to him on the mountain.  When it is finished, it will be consecrated and become a functional altar to the Lord.  It, like the other furnishings described in this part of Exodus, is completely portable, being carried by two bronze poles (vs. 6-7).  This is important as the people must be ready to pick up and move on very short notice as they follow the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night.