altar
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altar
A table-like structure in a church or temple that serves as a central place for religious ceremonies such as the Eucharist or offerings.
Das Brautpaar kniete vor dem Altar für den Segen.
The bridal couple knelt before the altar for the blessing.
altar
A place or structure set up for private or non-religious rituals, for remembrance, or for the veneration of people or ideas.
Sie hat in ihrem Wohnzimmer einen kleinen Altar mit Fotos ihrer verstorbenen Eltern aufgebaut.
She has set up a small altar in her living room with photos of her deceased parents.
The word 'Altar' (altar) comes from the Latin 'altus', which means 'high'. An altar is therefore literally an 'elevated place' for rituals, which explains its central and visible position in a church.
Der Priester stand am erhöhten Altar und sprach das Gebet.
The priest stood at the elevated altar and said the prayer.
Whether a religious or private altar is meant can be recognized from the location. Phrases like 'in der Kirche' (in the church) or 'im Tempel' (in the temple) point to the religious meaning, while 'zu Hause' (at home) or 'im Wohnzimmer' (in the living room) point to a private memorial place.
Der Altar in der Kathedrale ist reich verziert.
The altar in the cathedral is richly decorated.
The expressions 'vor den Altar treten' (to walk down the aisle/get married) or 'jemanden vor den Altar führen' (to lead someone to the altar/marry someone) are figurative expressions for 'heiraten' (to get married). They are often used in a more formal or solemn context.
Nach zehn Jahren Beziehung treten sie endlich vor den Altar.
After ten years together, they are finally getting married.
In a religious context, one stands or kneels 'vor dem Altar' (before the altar; dative). An action that takes place directly at the altar is often described with 'am Altar' (at the altar; dative).
Die Gemeinde versammelte sich vor dem Altar.
The congregation gathered before the altar.
shrine
An Altar and a Schrein can both be part of a religious site. The Altar is primarily the place where ceremonies take place, while a Schrein usually contains or displays a deity, saint, or relics for worship. Use “Altar” for the ritual and “Schrein” for what is being revered.
Die Gemeinde versammelte sich am Altar, um gemeinsam die religiöse Zeremonie zu feiern.
The congregation gathered at the altar to celebrate the religious ceremony together.
Die Besucher verbeugten sich vor dem Schrein, in dem die Reliquien des Heiligen aufbewahrt wurden.
The visitors bowed before the shrine where the saint’s relics were kept.
