HORNS OF THE ALTAR, the four protrusions at the corners of hewn stone altars, a feature common to the ancient world. The term Heb. קֶ֫רֶן, H7967, “horns” appears frequently in the OT. A description is given in Exodus 27:2, et al. It is clear that the horns of the altar conferred sanctuary to the accused (1 Kings 1:50).