Deuteronomy 27:6

Whole stones. There was to be no cutting, shaping, or polishing of the stones, lest attempts to decorate them should result in forms that might become objects of worship. According to Jewish commentators, these stones were taken from the bed of the Jordan. Such altars of rough stone were built upon various special occasions, as by Gideon and Manoah (Judges 6:24, 26; 13:19), Samuel (1 Sam. 7:17), Saul (1 Sam. 14:35), and David (2 Sam. 24:25). Compare Moses’ 12 pillars, erected when Israel originally entered into the covenant relationship at Horeb (Ex. 24:4). Later Elijah took 12 stones and built an altar as part of his endeavor to bring Israel back into covenant relation with God (1 Kings 18:31,32).

Burnt offerings. The word thus translated is from the verb root “to go up,” “to ascend.” The noun, used here, refers to an offering wholly consumed on the altar (see on Lev. 1:3), in contrast with other offerings, only portions of which were placed upon the altar. Only the hide and such portions as could not be washed clean did not come to the altar. This offering symbolized the uplifting of the soul in worship.

If the offering was a beast, it had to be a male without blemish (Lev. 1:3, 10; 22:18, 19); if a fowl, a turtledove or a young pigeon (Lev. 1:14). The young pigeon was usually offered by the poor (see Lev. 5:7; 12:8), and a lamb by persons who could afford it (Lev. 12:6; Num. 6:14) and by the nation (Lev. 23:12). This offering denoted the complete surrender of the offerer, fully dedicated to the Lord (see Ex. 24:5-7).

Peace offerings. Offerings of thanks expressed appreciation for salvation, for health, and for deliverance. The safe crossing of the Jordan and entrance into the promised inheritance would provide good cause for rejoicing.

The law written upon the stones would be both a reminder of duty and a witness to transgression. The offerings would testify to mercy, grace, and forgiveness of sin — to the fact that full provision had been made for the sinner’s repentance. They bore witness, as well, to renewed consecration. The peace offerings were reminiscent of the love, mercy, and grace with which God meets the repentant one. At the altar of unhewn stones, God and man met. Here reconciliation was effected. Here a new life was begun.

Rejoice. The repentant soul would realize that the peace offering was a banquet of joy and happiness. Fellowship with God had been restored, and at the sacred feast God and man communed together. Unity and peace prevailed between Jehovah and His people.