Temple Guards

The end of Parshat Korach contains certain laws that were applicable only to the Kohanim and Leviim. This was placed there after the rebellion, now that everything settled down.

One of the laws mentioned in the Torah was the Mitzva of שמירת המקדש, guarding the Beit Hamikdash and the Mishkan. This Mitzva was shared by the Kohanim and Leviim.

The Sefer Hachinuch explained that it was not so much that they were worried about intruders, but the twenty-four different watches that took place was meant to show reverence for this holy place.

When something is sacred, it is surrounded by those who protect it because of its special role. This is the place where people can pour their hearts out in prayer. They are able to offer sacrifices to achieve atonement for their sins. A place of prominence is not left without guards, even if they are not there to avert danger.

The Kohanim were given three locations to guard on the interior of the Temple. The Leviim were given twenty-one locations to guard on the outer part of the Temple.

There was a Levite appointed who was known as איש הר הבית, “the man of the Temple Mount.” He went on patrol each evening with a torch to make sure that none of the guards were “sleeping on the job.” If they were, the Man of the Temple Mount, might set their clothes on fire to wake them up!

The Temple was the holiest place on earth and the Torah demanded that it be guarded and treated with respect.