Bible Encyclopedias
Altar-Steps

Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature

the steps below and about the altar in a Christian church. They are usually at least three in number, independent of, and in addition to, the platform, predella, or dais on which the altar is actually placed. Sometimes there are more in number than three; if so, they are either five, seven, or fourteen. The latter would pertain to the high-altar of a collegiate church or cathedral.