במדבר, פרק ד׳, פסוק י״ד

During the journeys of the Israelites through the desert, moving the Tabernacle required a highly organized packing process. Preparing the large Altar of Burnt Offering for transport involved gathering its daily service tools, placing them directly upon it, and wrapping the entire structure before inserting its carrying poles.

The tools placed on the altar represent the different stages of the sacrificial service. The firepans were open-front scoops with only three sides, designed specifically for raking and lifting burning coals [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Copper forks were used to strike and turn the pieces of meat on the fire, ensuring they burned completely and rapidly [רש״י, שד״ל, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Copper shovels functioned as rakes to sweep and clear ashes from the surface [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ], while specialized basins were used to collect the sacrificial blood and throw it against the walls of the altar [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Although ash pots are not explicitly listed among the packed items, a large multi-purpose vessel was kept with the altar. This receptacle carried the burning coals during travel to maintain the commandment of a constant fire, and it was also used to transport ashes outside the camp. During regular service, this heavy vessel would be thrown to the floor, creating a loud noise that signaled the priests and Levites to gather for their duties [חזקוני].

Once the tools were arranged, the altar was wrapped. A purple cloth was laid down first, followed by an outer covering of tachash skin. The choice of purple served as a visual reminder of the red blood sprinkled on this specific altar. This set it apart from the Ark and the Golden Altar, which were wrapped in blue, and the Table, which was covered in scarlet [מלבי״ם]. Finally, the carrying poles were put into place. Although the Altar of Burnt Offering was massive, its interior was completely hollow, making it entirely manageable to carry on these poles during the long journeys [ביאור שטיינזלץ].