Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:11a

The Laws of God's Chosen House

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KNOCK FIRST, THEN OPEN. GET THE KEYS, YET USE THE WICKET

In previous Episodes we learnt about Cohanim and Levites positioned each night to mind the Beit HaMikdash, as well as the official oversight and the methods employed to enforce compliance of this sacred Guard Duty.

In this new Episode, we focus on the next order of business, walking the dawn to end the night and kickstart a new day.

Now, a new Sheriff arrives on site and begins the process by knocking on the door first thereby activating the waiting Cohanim. The retrieval of the Keys and the informal opening of a door is next.

Keys in Hand, this Mikdash Manager who oversees the division of daily priestly responsibilities will muster the young Cohanim to launch official walkaround as they enter the Mikdash Courtyard proper via a mere wicket door, rather than the regular Grand Gateway.