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The Inadequacy of Our Natural Hearts: An Analysis of George Herbert’s “The Altar”

            George Herbert (1593-1633) was a seventh-century Welsh poet and Anglican clergyman. His works are commonly grouped into the metaphysical movement, a style of poetry that concentrates on existential questions, profound thought, and oftentimes with theological implications. These characteristics of metaphysical poetry are seen throughout all of Herbert’s works, as he expresses himself in an intellectual yet devotional manner. His poetry showcases the beauty of words that can ensue if individuals allow the Lord to direct their artistic endeavors. He uses metaphor, structure, and tone in his poem, “The Altar,” to convey the condition of the human heart. The heart is the part of an individual that must be transformed and made new by the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit.

            The most apparent literary device Herbert uses in the poem is metaphor, developing his thought as he equates the human heart with that of a stone. The poet says, “A broken ALTAR, Lord, thy servant rears, / Made of a heart and cemented with tears.” The heart is like an altar, a symbol of sacrifice and surrender. These first two lines seem to allude to Psalm 51, where David says: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise” (Psalm 51:17). The parallel suggests the brokenness of man due to his imperfections. The altar he erects is stained with sin, suffering, or, in more general terms, the effects of a fallen world. His tears hold this altar together. These tears come from genuine repentance.

The second part of the poem touches on the doctrine of total depravity as it states: “A HEART alone / Is such a stone, / As nothing but / Thy pow’r doth cut.” Untouched, the heart shares characteristics of a stone: cold, lifeless, and unresponsive. Yet, God’s workmanship can still be seen in the presence of the life He gave to the creature. The redeeming work of the Holy Spirit must be active for the will to come alive. We see this concept in the book of Ezekiel: “. . . and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26). God replaces the cold, stony heart with a warm, softened one. This is a spiritual work carried out by the Spirit’s volition.

The last stanza of the poem showcases the effects of this supernatural work and contains an eager petition: “That if I chance to hold my peace, / These stones to praise thee may not cease. / Oh, let thy blessed SACRIFICE be mine, / And sanctify this ALTAR to be thine.” The author expresses praise and worship for God as he recounts the transformation that has occurred in his life. From this change springs a well full of adoration and thanksgiving for the Lord. He is the one who has breathed new life into the once-dead spirit. This leads the author to petition for greater consecration and sanctification in his walk with God. He pleads for the Lord to make the “blessed SACRIFICE,” that is, Christ’s atoning work, his own. The doctrine of justification can be seen in this line. The righteousness of Christ is imputed to us as soon as we trust in it to cover us. Finally, sanctification is desired by the author as he asks the Lord to make him set apart for service. The few examples explored above are just some of the ways Herbert uses metaphorical language to convey spiritual truth.

            The physical appearance of the poem is also significant for the overarching themes embedded within. At first glance, it is clear that the shape of the poem is meant to mimic a literal altar where sacrifices are placed. The first stanza focuses on introducing the metaphor and reality of the poet’s condition. This transitions into the second stanza, which comments on the nature of the dead heart. Finally, the third stanza concentrates on praising God for all that He has done, and petitioning for grace. In addition, Herbert’s usage of stylistic capitalization directs the reader’s attention to the main themes: “ALTAR,” “HEART,” and “SACRIFICE.” The capitalization of these three words is used to guide the reader’s thoughts to the main points being made. Herbert strengthens his point and provides a visual layer to the written text.

Whenever one performs analysis on a literary work, specifically those that are theological in nature, there must be a healthy balance between head and heart. A consideration of the authorial intent is a sure way to keep these two elements in order. It is a common temptation to neglect the step of applying the lessons learned while dealing with the intellectually rigorous art of interpretation. Herbert’s ending petition can serve as a reminder of our need to be wholly surrendered to Christ, growing in the knowledge of Christ each day of our lives (2 Peter 3:18). Therefore, let us strive to continually trust in the Lord’s grace for all our spiritual needs, resting in the finished work of Christ.

Sources:

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/george-herbert

https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/poet-reformation

– Jamie Helmer