THEOSISWlastow G.K.
The horns located at each corner of the altar were integral to its structure and have persisted in the design of altars throughout subsequent eras. For example, during the reign of King David, when Solomon was inaugurated as king, Adonijah, who sought to usurp the throne, fled and seized the horn of the altar (3 Kings 1:50). Similarly, rabbinic teachings suggest that the horns were also a prominent feature of the altar constructed by Solomon. In the accounts of the temple's construction found in 3 Kings 8:1 and 2 Chronicles 4:1, the altar is referenced briefly without detailed description.
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The horns held significant ritual importance during the sacrificial offerings (Exodus 29:12; Leviticus 8:15; Leviticus 9:9; Leviticus 16:18). In the rites of burnt offerings, the horns were consecrated with the blood of the sacrificed animal, while the remaining blood was poured out at the altar. This practice was similarly followed by priests offering a sin offering on behalf of either a ruler of Israel or any member of the community (Lev. 4:22-25; 27-30). However, in instances involving a sin offering for an anointed priest (Lev. 4:3) or on behalf of the entire assembly of Israel (Lev. 4:13), the blood was presented in the sanctuary before the veil of the Holy of Holies. After the blood was sprinkled seven times before the veil, it was applied to the horns of the altar of incense rather than the altar of burnt offerings, with the remainder of the sacrificial blood subsequently being poured out in the outer court before the altar of burnt offerings (Lev. 4:7, 18).