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Beit HaMikdash

A kohen beginning his watch

Your family's watch serves this week, one of twenty-four.Reconstruction educational simulation: A choice this site made to draw or model something the sources do not fully specify. About 8 minutes
Reconstruction: the empty inner court at first light, seen from between the altar and the porch; twelve broad steps rise to the Sanctuary's doorless opening under five stacked oak lintels, the golden vine faintly visible inside.

  1. Scene 1 of 7

    Your week

    The priests are divided into twenty-four watches, each serving in turn. At home, members of your watch's lay delegation gather to read the account of Creation while you serve.

  2. Scene 2 of 7 · The Chamber of Hewn Stone

    Handing over

    On Shabbat the outgoing watch hands over to yours, and adds a blessing for those leaving.

  3. Scene 3 of 7 · The Azarah (inner courtyard)

    The night chamber

    You sleep in the vaulted fire chamber. The elders hold the keys; the young priests put their bedding on the floor, their sacred garments folded under their heads.

  4. Scene 4 of 7 · The Great Altar

    Before cock-crow

    You immerse and wait for the officer. The lottery for the ashes: you hold up a finger with the others, never a thumb. You are not chosen today.

  5. Scene 5 of 7 · The Laver

    The laver, barefoot

    You wash hands and feet at the laver. You serve barefoot: nothing may come between a priest and the Temple floor.

  6. Scene 6 of 7 · The Chamber of Hewn Stone

    Shema

    In the Chamber of Hewn Stone the priests say a blessing, the Ten Commandments and the Shema together, before the incense.

  7. Scene 7 of 7 · The Porch

    Blessing the people

    On the steps of the Porch you raise your hands above your head and say the words of Numbers 6 over the crowd: 'The Lord bless thee, and keep thee.'