שמות, פרק ל״ח, פסוק ז׳

The construction of the altar of burnt offering reflects a thoughtful blend of practical design for desert travel and profound spiritual symbolism regarding human character. Bezalel personally inserted the carrying poles into the rings on the sides of the altar, much like the process used for the Ark of the Covenant. These poles extended outward from both sides, ensuring the structure was always fully prepared to be carried on the journey [העמק דבר].

Rather than a solid block, the altar was designed as a hollow frame [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. It was constructed using acacia wood boards on all sides, leaving the center entirely empty [רש״י]. This wooden frame was overlaid with copper, and whenever the Israelites set up camp in the desert, the empty inner space was filled with earth to complete the structure [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

As the designated place for refining the physical and animalistic aspects of human nature, the design of the outer altar mirrors two contrasting yet complementary traits necessary for serving God. On the outside, the copper coating represents determination and a positive kind of stubbornness required to achieve spiritual goals. However, the hollow interior filled with earth offers a balancing lesson. It teaches that despite projecting outward strength and firmness, a person must remain deeply humble and modest on the inside, just like the earth itself [חומש קה״ת].