der  Hochaltar

C1

Estimated CEFR level.

/ˈhoːxʔaltar/

⛪ Definition: What is a Hochaltar?

Der Hochaltar (masculine) refers to the main altar or high altar in a church. It is typically located in the chancel (Chorraum), often elevated (hence hoch = high) and in a prominent position. Historically, it was the most important altar for celebrating the Eucharist, often elaborately decorated and featuring an altarpiece (Altarretabel).

There is only one article, der, for Hochaltar because it's a specific masculine noun. No risk of confusion with other articles! 👍

📐 Grammar Explained: Declension

Der Hochaltar is a masculine noun. Here is its declension:

Example Sentences

1. Der Hochaltar dieser Kathedrale stammt aus dem Barock.
   (The high altar of this cathedral dates from the Baroque period.)
2. Die Restaurierung des Hochaltars war sehr aufwendig.
   (The restoration of the high altar was very elaborate.)
3. Der Priester zelebrierte die Messe am Hochaltar.
   (The priest celebrated Mass at the high altar.)
4. Viele Touristen bewundern den prachtvollen Hochaltar.
   (Many tourists admire the magnificent high altar.)
5. Die Figuren auf den Hochaltären sind oft biblische Darstellungen.
   (The figures on the high altars are often biblical depictions.)

💡 Usage Context

The term Hochaltar is mainly used in the context of church architecture, art history, and liturgy.

• Architecture/Art History: Describing church interiors, discussing stylistic features, and art historical significance.
• Religion/Liturgy: Referring to the place where Mass was traditionally celebrated, often in contrast to the more modern Volksaltar (people's altar), which is closer to the congregation.
• Distinction: It differs from a Seitenaltar (side altar, smaller altars in side aisles or chapels) or the Volksaltar (often free-standing, placed in front of the high altar after Vatican II, facing the people).

In general conversation outside these specialized contexts, the word is less common.

🧠 Mnemonics to Remember

Article Mnemonic: Think of the altar as the 'head honcho', the main man in the church's focus - 'der' is the masculine article. Or imagine it standing high and commanding respect like a king (der König) - so der Hochaltar.

Meaning Mnemonic: The word itself helps! Hoch (high) + Altar (altar) = An altar that is (often) physically high up, or the highest in rank, the main altar.

🔄 Synonyms & Antonyms

⚠️ Note: An Altarretabel is the artistic structure on or behind the altar (altarpiece, reredos), not the altar itself, although sometimes used imprecisely.

😂 A Little Joke

Fragt ein Tourist den Küster: "Ist dieser beeindruckende Hochaltar sehr alt?"
Antwortet der Küster: "Aber ja, mein Herr! Wenn er sprechen könnte, würde er wahrscheinlich Latein sprechen!"

Translation: A tourist asks the church warden: "Is this impressive high altar very old?"
The warden replies: "Oh yes, sir! If it could speak, it would probably speak Latin!"

📜 Poem about the Hochaltar

Im Chor, erhöht, aus Stein und Gold,
Der Hochaltar, Geschichten hold.
Von Meistern einst mit Kunst bedacht,
Steht er erhaben, voller Pracht.
Zeuge stiller Gebete Klang,
Seit vielen Jahren, lebenslang.

Translation:
In the chancel, raised, of stone and gold,
The high altar, stories old.
By masters once with art adorned,
It stands sublime, by beauty born.
Witness to silent prayers' sound,
For many years, on hallowed ground.

🧩 Little Riddle

Ich steh' im Chor, bin oft erhöht,
Aus Holz, aus Stein, hab' Majestät.
Der wichtigste Platz, wo Weihrauch schwebt,
Und Kunst an mir gar reichlich klebt.

Wer bin ich, prachtvoll anzuseh'n,
Wo Priester oft im Gottesdienst steh'n?

Translation:
I stand in the chancel, often raised high,
Of wood, of stone, beneath the sky (ceiling).
The most important place, where incense drifts,
And art upon me richly sits.

Who am I, magnificent to behold,
Where priests in service stories told?

Solution: Der Hochaltar (The High Altar)

✨ Further Information

Word Composition:

The word "Hochaltar" is a compound noun, composed of:

• hoch: Adjective meaning 'high', 'main', or 'of high rank'.
• Altar: Noun (from Latin 'altare'), referring to the sacrificial table or the table for liturgical ceremonies.

Cultural Significance: High altars (Hochaltäre) are often masterpieces of sculpture, painting, and architecture from their respective eras (e.g., Gothic, Baroque) and are important artifacts of art history and church history.