Description
Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:23a
The Laws of God's Chosen House
Having previously arrived at the penultimate of sacred space, the innermost Sanctum of the Jerusalem Temple – referred to as the Holy of Holies, there's only direction to move: Up!
Having completed the detailed enumeration of the Ten Stages of Holiness designed to enhance our reverence and awe for Hashem's "Chosen Home," Maimonides now takes us up into the upper level.
This begs an obvious question: once you've already reached the top, how can you go any higher?! As we delve into this Higher than Holiest space things will become clear.
The limited access – for reparative purposes only – is limited for technical reasons. The severely restricted nature of the occasional inspection is, in fact, NOT positive proof of a higher level of Holiness.
Rather being a sacred space in its own right, the story behind the Temple's Upper Storey's seeming sanctity is really about reverence due to association and proximity!
Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:11c
The Laws of God's Chosen House
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HOLDING PATTERN FOR FRIDAY NIGHT. MINDING TIME & SPACE
In past Episodes, we discussed the pre-dawn Priestly Guard Duty Sweep around the Azara (Beit HaMikdash Courtyard) perimeter. Torch-led groups set off in opposite...
Published 07/25/23
Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:11c
The Laws of God's Chosen House
!
COMPLETING THE WATCH BY A GREETING AND PROMPT TO BAKE
In the immediate past Episode, we learnt how the nocturnal Priestly Guard Duty to Mind the Mikdash was completed by a circular sweep around the Azara (Beit HaMikdash...
Published 07/24/23