Old Testament
2 Chronicles 4:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Moreover, he made a bronze altar, 20 cubits long, 20 cubits wide, and 10 cubits high.
Compare translations
Moreover he made an altar of brass, twenty cubits the length thereof, and twenty cubits the breadth thereof, and ten cubits the height thereof.
What 2 Chronicles 4:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about the construction of a significant bronze altar. This altar was quite large, measuring 20 cubits in length and width, and standing 10 cubits high. The size of the altar indicates its importance in the worship practices of the time. It was a central place for sacrifices, symbolizing a connection between the people and their faith. The use of bronze suggests durability and strength, reflecting the seriousness of the worship that would take place there. This altar was not just a physical structure; it represented a space for spiritual encounters and offerings. The dimensions highlight the grandeur of the worship experience, inviting people to come and participate in something greater than themselves. Overall, this verse sets the stage for understanding the significance of worship in the community's life and the importance of creating spaces dedicated to spiritual practices. It reminds us that our places of worship should be meaningful and reflect our commitment to our beliefs.
How to apply 2 Chronicles 4:1 to your life
Consider how you create spaces for reflection and connection in your life. Just as the altar was a focal point for worship, think about what areas in your life invite you to engage with your beliefs. Make those spaces meaningful and intentional, fostering a deeper connection to your values and community. Reflect on how you can enhance your personal worship experience today.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Chronicles 4:1
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Chronicles 4:1
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Chronicles
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What was the significance of the bronze altar in 2 Chronicles 4:1?
The bronze altar mentioned in 2 Chronicles 4:1 was significant as it served as a central place for sacrifices in the worship practices of the Israelites. Its large dimensions—20 cubits long, 20 cubits wide, and 10 cubits high—indicate its importance in facilitating a connection between the people and their faith. This altar symbolized a space for spiritual encounters, reflecting the seriousness of worship and the community's commitment to their beliefs.
Why was the altar made of bronze?
The altar was made of bronze to signify durability and strength, which were essential qualities for a structure intended for sacrifices. Bronze, being a strong metal, represented the lasting nature of the worship practices and the seriousness with which the community approached their spiritual rituals. The choice of material also highlighted the altar's importance as a focal point in their worship.
How does 2 Chronicles 4:1 relate to modern worship practices?
2 Chronicles 4:1 emphasizes the importance of creating dedicated spaces for worship, which can be applied to modern practices. Just as the bronze altar was a significant place for sacrifices, contemporary worship spaces should invite reflection and connection to one's beliefs. This verse encourages individuals and communities to cultivate meaningful environments that enhance their spiritual experiences and foster a deeper connection to their values.
What can we learn about community worship from this verse?
This verse illustrates the communal aspect of worship, as the altar served as a gathering place for the people to come together in faith. It highlights the importance of shared spaces in fostering community connections and collective spiritual experiences. By understanding the significance of such spaces, modern communities can strive to create environments that encourage participation, reflection, and a sense of belonging in their worship practices.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.