One commentator affirms that the description here and in the following verses “presupposes a detailed understanding of the temple plans and ceremonies by both the writer and his original readers” (Hobbs, page 216). Since this understanding is not shared by modern readers, some adjustments may be required in translation.

The bronze altar: The ancient Greek version omits these words, but the evidence for their inclusion in the Hebrew is strong and they should not be omitted in translation. New Jerusalem Bible omits only the word bronze, assuming that this is a scribal addition made in order to identify clearly the altar referred to here. In 1 Kgs 8.64 this bronze altar is said to be “too small” and perhaps that explains the desire for a new altar. The other altar, referred to as his altar, appears to be the new one just built. The pronoun his is supplied by Revised Standard Version, but is not a part of the original Hebrew. However, it is probably legitimate to translate “the new altar” (Good News Translation, New American Bible, New Jerusalem Bible, Bible en français courant, La Bible du Semeur, Nouvelle Bible Segond), “this new altar” (Revised English Bible), or “his new altar” (Contemporary English Version) in order to make the meaning clear. The Hebrew does not say whether the new altar was also made of bronze, which seems likely, or whether it was made of stone.

Which was before the LORD: The bronze altar had been consecrated to Yahweh by its very position. The implication seems to be that the new position for it was a place of less honor.

As happens frequently in the Old Testament, the expressions the house and the house of the LORD both refer to the Temple.

Put it on the north side of his altar: It has been suggested that the positioning of the two altars gives prominence to the new one. This, of course, seems quite logical since the previous altar was considered inadequate at least in terms of size.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Kings, Volume 2. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2008. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .