2 Chronicles 4:1

2 Chronicles 4:1. The Altar of Brass

1. twenty cubits The measurements of the altar belonging to Solomon's Temple are not given in 1 Kings; but in Exodus 38:1 the altar made in the wilderness is described as measuring five cubits by five cubits, and in height three cubits. An altar three cubits high could perhaps be served from the ground, but one of ten cubits would require steps, which are forbidden in Exodus 20:26. In Ezekiel 43:17, however, it is assumed that the altar must have steps and a position is assigned them on the East, so that the priest ascending them faces the direction of the Holy of Holies which was on the West.