Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Altar”
The biblical word “Altar” traces back to Hebrew / Greek (מִזְבֵּחַ (mizbeach) / θυσιαστήριον (thysiastērion)), where it meant “A place of sacrifice; an elevated structure for offerings to deity”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “A table or elevated structure in a church used for religious ceremonies; a place of sacrifice or offering”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Hebrew / Greekמִזְבֵּחַ (mizbeach) / θυσιαστήριον (thysiastērion)A place of sacrifice; an elevated structure for offerings to deity
Hebrew mizbeach (H4196) from zebach (to sacrifice). Greek thysiastērion (G2379) from thysias (sacrifice). Both denote structures for burnt offerings and sacrifices to God.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinaltareA sacred table in a church; the place where the Eucharist is celebrated
Latin altare, possibly from altus (high/elevated). In Christian liturgy, the altar became the focal point of worship and the celebration of the Eucharist/Mass.
Modern English
EnglishaltarA table or elevated structure in a church used for religious ceremonies; a place of sacrifice or offering
Via Old French autel from Latin altare. English usage encompasses both the historical (OT sacrificial altar) and liturgical (Christian Eucharist table) senses.