Text: Ezekiel 43:17
OT Text Referred to: Exodus 20:26
Subject: steps of altar
Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Reference Type: Echo
Connection Method(s): None
Significance: Exodus 20:26 prohibits steps on God's altar "so that your nakedness will not be exposed on it," protecting the sanctity of priestly approach. Ezekiel 43:17 describes the visionary altar with steps (מַעֲלוֹתֵהוּ, ma'alotehav) facing east—an apparent tension with the Exodus prohibition. This development reflects the change from simple earth/stone altars requiring no ascent to the massive temple altar that demanded a ramp or staircase for practical access. The concern for priestly modesty expressed in Exodus 20:26 was later addressed by priestly garments (Exod 28:42-43, linen undergarments), which made the original prohibition of steps unnecessary while preserving the underlying principle of reverent approach to sacred space.