Altar: meaning, definitions and examples

A table in a Christian church where the bread and wine are blessed during the Eucharist.

• The priest placed the chalice on the altar.
• They approached the altar to receive communion.

A place regarded as holy because of its associations with a divinity or a sacred person or relic.

• They visited the saint's shrine to leave offerings.
• The small shrine had candles and flowers around it.

A sacred or holy place, often a part of a religious building, where one can find peace or refuge.

• The birds found sanctuary in the dense forest.
• The faithful entered the sanctuary for prayer.

A table used in ancient or traditional rituals for making sacrifices, often animals or food items.

• The ancient Greeks laid offerings on the sacrificial table.
• During the ceremony, they placed the goat on the sacrificial table.

Commonly used in religious contexts, especially in Christian churches, where it is a table or platform used during ceremonies.

• The priest stood before the altar during the service.
• She placed the flowers on the altar as an offering.

Typically used to emphasize the sanctity of the table used in religious rituals, often highlighting its spiritual significance.

• The sacred table was reserved for the most important rites.
• No one was allowed to touch the sacred table except for the clergy.

Can be used in more general spiritual or religious contexts beyond just Christianity, signifying a raised structure used during rituals or ceremonies.

• The holy platform was beautifully adorned for the festival.
• They gathered around the holy platform for the sacred dance.

A broader term that encompasses any designated space for worship, which may include an altar but also other elements.

• The worship area was designed to accommodate large congregations.
• They entered the worship area to pray and meditate.