altar

Definition

An altar was a raised structure on which the Israelites burned animals and grains as offerings to God.

During Bible times, simple altars were often made by packing together a mound of earth or by carefully placing large stones to form a stable pile.
Some special, box-shaped altars were made of wood overlaid with metals such as gold, brass, or bronze.
Other people groups living nearby the Israelites also built altars to offer sacrifices to their gods.