Rambam with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan- The Laws of God's Chosen House (Hilchot Beit Habechirah)

1

LIT FOR SHABBAT!

Jul 25, 2023

45:15

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:11c The Laws of God's Chosen House ! 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 directions and completed the circle at the appointed meeting place. In this new Episode we conclude with the final Halacha that emphasizes the need to maintain the pattern of this concluding ritual on the night of Shabbat as well. Yet, it is here that the Sanctity of Time and Space are set on Collison Course! To Hold the Pattern of Daily Guard Duty, and nonetheless Guard the holiness of Shabbat we reach a compromise by pre-placing torches, instead of holding them. This however sets off a firestorm of contradictory jurisprudence. According the Rambam's own Mitzva Metrics this precautionary methodology seems superfluous! By further developing and applying the Rebbe's novel Temple Watch Thesis many more questions continue to be resolved and answered!

2

BAKERY MEETING!

Jul 24, 2023

42:25

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 Courtyard) perimeter. The two torch-led groups that previously headed off in opposite directions meet-up at the Chavitan Baker's Chamber. And now, as the circle is being completed -- special greetings are extended to one another. As day is about to break, it's time to conclude and hand-off the baton of mindfulness by getting the day going. Learn how that happens when the proverbial Sanctuary Sentries take the initiative to actively prompt the Chavitan Bakers. Why meet there, and what does the initiation of the daily schedule of services have to do with the Priestly Palace Guards? In this new Episode we'll further develop the Rebbe's Temple Watch Thesis that continues to clarify and answer so many questions!

3

HOLD YOUR FIRE!

Jul 24, 2023

32:01

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:11b The Laws of God's Chosen House ! FLAMING TORCH-LEAD SEARCH BY E/W DIRECTIONAL DIVISION After the delineating the respective Guard Duties of the Cohanim and Levites, we focused on the climatic walking of the dawn that ended the nightly Mikdash minding. What began with a gentle knock on the door swiftly evolves into an official perimeter sweep in the form of a flaming, ceremonial Torch-led Search. To proceed there's a required Directional Division, as one group heads East and other goes West. Walking near the walls a complete Courtyard Circuit must be achieved. As they made their separate ways around the Azara (Beit HaMikdash Courtyard), a thorough check of provisional Temple artifacts went down. The circle would only be closed when both fired-up groups arrived at Chavitan Baker's Chamber!

4

BREAKING DAWN!

Jul 17, 2023

44:03

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:11a The Laws of God's Chosen House ! 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.

5

YOU'RE FIRED!

Jul 16, 2023

33:38

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:10b The Laws of God's Chosen House ' ! SCORCHED BY A TORCH, CRIES SOUND-OFF IN THE HOLY CITY In our previous Episode we learnt about a Powerful Officer who oversaw the 24 watches of Cohanim and Levites who were supposed to be minding the Har HaBayit perimeter, and Beit HaMikdash proper. Making torch-lit rounds he would review the sentries all night-long. And he would enforce full compliance. Anyone caught sleeping on the job would receive immediate corporal punishment. In the new Episode we learn more about radical methods of enforcement. In addition to striking the sentry with his staff, he was even allowed to light his clothes on fire! Were Cohanim included, or did this only apply to the Levites, were such extreme measure ever actually employed, and finally, how could that even be legal? Our illuminating analysis will shed much light on this hot button, burning issue!!

6

THE OVERSEER

Jul 16, 2023

26:52

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:10a The Laws of God's Chosen House : GUARD - RISE & GREET THE SHINE OR BE GUILTY OF SILENCE! Over the past dozen Episodes, we have learnt much about the Honour Guard Duties carried out by both the Cohanim and Levite Clans. In total, 24 specialized groups of mostly adult (along with a notable contingent of minors) took up their positions, minding their appointed posts each night. They were strategically stationed around the Temple Mount circumference, as well as the outer scrimmage of the massive multi-tiered Beit HaMikdash Campus. After reviewing the three locations that housed the Cohanim, and then went on to delineate the 21 Levite placements at Gateways, Corners and Chambers. In the new Episode we are introduced to the 'Guardian Angel' Overseer who was appointed over all the watches. Making continuous torch-lit rounds, his mandate was to ensure and even enforce compliance. Each sentry was expected to rise and greet the Temple Campus CEO. Failure to verbally respond would be tantamount to a silent admission of guilt. This Honour Guard Overseer was granted overarching powers of enforcement, including the administration of corporal punishment!

7

CHAMBER WATCH

Jul 16, 2023

59:09

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:9 The Laws of God's Chosen House OFFICES OF OFFERING & CURTAINS In the previous Episode we learnt more about guard duties of the Levite Clan at the only some of the gates of entranceways to the Mikdash Courtyard. We tallied locations and thus far reached Chai! In this new Episode we will continue with the Levites on Guard Duty in the final three, yet somewhat unusual locations. From the Office of Offering that was housed in a Chamber within a Chamber to the enigmatic Control Centre of the Curtains it seems that something different is actively at play here... a fascinating new theory will be suggested. As we conclude with the final Levite posting behind the Holy of Holies, e.g., the "House of The Covering" -- the surprising euphemism for the highest of degree of sanctity begs for clarification. As a glimmer emerges from medieval commentary in respect to the Shechina, where the smallest of openings is viewed as an active gateway. We'll contemplate biblical verses about sacred conventions of our connectivity with the Creator. The full illuminated development of which can easily lend stunning credibility to the veracity of the aforementioned novelty.

8

GUARDING DIVISION

Jul 16, 2023

20:02

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:8b The Laws of God's Chosen House FIVE OF SEVEN GATES | THE LEVITE COHEN CHAI DIVIDE In the previous Episode we learnt about the outer scrimmage duties and responsibilities of the Levite Clans: Guarding at Gates, and Minding Corners too. Some were posted on the inside, while others were pointedly kept out --- due to technical reasons and considerations. In this Episode we will continue with the Levites on Guard Duty, but this time our focus is exclusively on the gateways to an inner scrimmage of sanctity. We'll discover that, strangely enough, not all gates fall within the Levite mandate, as their purview includes only five of the seven formal entranceways to the Mikdash Courtyard itself. The Levites are on duty where they must be because there are some places that Cohanim get to go to instead. Finally, Rambam feels it's important to add up the numbers and state the tally. Incredibly we end up adding up to Chai!

9

GUARD DUTY

Jul 16, 2023

25:37

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:8a The Laws of God's Chosen House GATE KEEPERS COVER CORNERS | INSIDE AND OUT TO SIT In previous Episodes we learnt about the Cohanim Honour Guard and how Hashem's Holy Home isn't hospitable to Ritual Impurity and a solution that was carved in stone! Having concluded the Cohen Guard Duty details, in this new Episode we move onto the responsibilities shouldered by the Levite Clans. We'll learn about their duty as Gate Keepers, as well as being sure to Cover Corners. Interestingly some of these postings were on the inside of things, while others were most strikingly kept outside. Fascinatingly, that was due to a technical seating prohibition and the length of their assignments. Finally, we will shift out focus to positioning, as the precision of the Rambam's words along with an anonymous medieval commentary lead us to a proper understanding.

10

SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS

Aug 21, 2022

28:06

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:6 The Laws of God's Chosen House In previous Episode we learnt about the Elder Cohanim, and the semi-sacred "Chamber of the Hearth" where they'd spend the night prior to their Beit HaMikdash Day of Duty. This was also the location for the Adult Cohanim Honour Guard, which included taking responsibility for the Keys to Hashem's Holy Home! In this new Episode we'll learn all about their Sleeping Arrangements answering a slew of curious questions: Can sleeping Cohanim be considered an Honour Guard? Did they have special Priestly Pajamas, did they bring their own? Were there beds or cots to sleeping on, or did they make do on the ground? Finally, was there a unique issue of Temple Bedding and Pillows, Sleeping Bags and was it befitting of the Mikdash-grade Dignity, as they say in "Royal Fashion?"

11

KEYS OF THE KINGDOM

Aug 21, 2022

28:21

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:5b The Laws of God's Chosen House In past Episode we learned about the role played by the Junior Cohanim in the Beit HaMikdash Honour Guard. This included the details of the Upper-Level Chambers in which they were stationed when they took up their positions. In the current Episode we'll focus on the Elder Cohanim, and the semi-sacred "Chamber of the Hearth" area in which they fulfilled their version of this sacred watch. We will also learn about the responsibility vested in the hands of these elder Cohanim to ensure that the Adults Maintain Control by Keeping the Keys in Possession!

12

FIRE GATE

Aug 21, 2022

30:39

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:5a The Laws of God's Chosen House In previous Episodes we've already clarified the Beit HaMikdash Honour Guard that applies in mutually exclusive fashion to both Cohanim and Levi'im. In this episode we'll learn focus on the role played by the youngest Cohanim in the Chambers of Smoke and Spark; where the "Kid Kohanim" were stationed when they took up their version of this sacred watch. The names and meanings of these upper level chambers will be explored and we'll also highlight the different opinions of how old is old enough to carry out of this unusual Temple obligation.

13

INSIDE OR OUTSIDE

Aug 21, 2022

34:05

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:4 The Laws of God's Chosen House In previous Episodes we've established that preforming the Beit HaMikdash Honour Guard fulfills a Positive Mitzvah of the Torah. And failure to implement this scared duty constitutes a violation of a separate Negative Mitzvah. We've also learnt that this Mitzvah mandate applies specifically to the Levite Tribe, which is comprised of both Cohanim and Levi'im. In this episode we'll learn about how that Take Up Positions, as we explore the nature of the two-tiered division of this Tribal Temple Responsibility. We'll highlight the Rambam's view about the unique responsibility on each of these special clans to carry out of their Temple Honour Guard in different locations, rather than serving as an adjunct to one another. We will further explore the number of places required, how many people it took to fill them. Finally, we address an obvious question: if this all about mindfulness and preservation of dignity, why are so many locations and guards are required?!

14

STOP WATCH

Jul 28, 2022

18:23

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:3 The Laws of God's Chosen House We've already established that the Beit HaMikdash Watch is biblically ordained, which means that "Standing on Guard for Thee" is a Positive Mitzvah of the Torah applying to the pedigree of Cohanim and Levi'im. In this episode we'll learn that Stopping the Watch comprises a Moving Violation too! That means failure to preform the sacred Sanctuary Guard Duty not merely Sin of Omission; nullifying a Positive Mitzvah but is also a violation of a Negative Mitzvah. In the Rambam's view, the Torah places so much value on the Temple Honour Guard that is adjures us with both Positive and Negative Commands to ensure it gets done!

15

THE GUARDIANS

Jul 28, 2022

28:27

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:2b The Laws of God's Chosen House We get into the technicalities of the Tribal Formations of the Beit HaMikdash Guard Brigade. As we've already learnt this Mitzvah was specifically given to a particular pedigree of the Jewish People. The very same Cohanic clan and Levite families already tasked with serving in Hashem's holy home, on behalf of the nation. In this episode we will delve into details to learn the Who’s Who of the Temple Watchman as elucidated by our Sages, and codified by Maimonides: You'll discover the division of duties exclusively apportioned amongst the Cohanim and Levi'im - in their unique roles in minding this magnificent Mikdash Mitzvah. By tracing the Mitzvah mandate from its original Scriptural Sources to the Statements of our Sages through to the Rulings of the Rambam as clarified by the commentaries -- a full snapshot of this sacred duty emerges.

16

NIGHT WATCH

Jul 28, 2022

20:49

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:2a The Laws of God's Chosen House We continue to focus on the Guard Duty we are commanded about in the Torah regarding the Beit HaMikdash. As clarified, the ideal of this Mitzvah is to cultivate an aura of respectful dignity and rarefied atmosphere around Hashem's holy home . In this episode we will further explore the meaning and jurisprudence of this Sacred Duty in the illuminated view of Maimonides. To achieve this, we'll analyze and emphasize the rhyme and reason for the Dusk to Dawn nature of our Nocturnal Mandate. Learning of the division of responsibility - amongst Cohanim and Levi'im - is another matter of interest; providing additional insight into this unique Mikdash Mitzvah. The variety of related sources and presented all serve to better frame and augment the rulings of the Rambam regarding Respect for Hashem's Chosen Home!

17

HONOUR GUARD

Jul 25, 2022

23:53

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 8:1 The Laws of God's Chosen House In this Episode we open Chapter Eight of Hilchot Beit HaBechira. It begins with a focus on us creating an presidential aura and atmosphere of palace prominence in and around the Sanctuary and Temple Mount. This is the essence of a new Mikdash Mitzvah that we are now introduced to: The Divine Commandment to Guard Hashem's Holy Home; a sacred duty to ensure it's rarified dignity. Once opening the subject we'll delve into practical Halacha; the Torah Law and Order by which we govern ourselves today. Does there need to be a building for this Mitzvah mandate to apply?

18

CHOICE OF EVILS

Jul 25, 2022

41:32

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:23c The Laws of God's Chosen House In the previous Episode we learnt about certain restrictions on access being loosened to allow for the entry of professional craftspeople for constructive or reparative purposes. Although entering these sacred (otherwise restricted) areas for technical reasons is permitted, a sliding scale of limitations, even for these allowances still apply. Ideally the ritually pure "Priest Perfect" professional should be engaged, if that option is unavailable a Cohen with deformities would be our next choice. If there are no priestly professionals to be found, then, at the very least, we'd seek a for member of the Levite Tribe. If there are no professional craftspeople with Levite lineage, we are permitted to settle for a common Israelite. However, in every eventuality ritual purity remained a high priority! In this Episode we will focus making the tough choice between imperfect options. Which would be the preferable (albeit problematic) solution, the physically blemished or ritually impure Cohen? Here we'll delve into the Law and Order and of how we Define Deficiencies. Interestingly we cross into the theoretical jurisprudence that governs the ritual rules of public impurity suspensions and the way we view sacred consumptions. We end Chapter Seven of Hilchot Beit HaBechira with Boxed-in possibilities and final resort of employing a Grand Entrance!

19

MAKING THE GRADE

Jul 22, 2022

25:22

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:23b The Laws of God's Chosen House After reaching the Tenth Stages of Holiness designed to enhance our reverence and awe for Hashem's "Chosen Home," we took it up into the next level. Then it became apparent that the highly restricted access to the space higher than the Holy of Holies wasn't indicative of a higher holiness after all! We now return to the lower level inside the Sanctuary proper, but this time it's for reparative purposes. Although this entry is purely technical, some restrictions still apply. We now focus on Qualifying Craftspeople; who best "Makes the Grade," is it going to be Priest Perfect, at least a Member of the Tribe, or will we have to settle for a Commoner? Regardless of the result, clearly, limitations loosened doesn't equal restrictions rescinded. After all, we are dealing with a space that's sacred in its own right!

20

THE UPPER STOREY

Jul 20, 2022

29:11

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!

21

THE BIG KAHUNA

Jul 20, 2022

24:33

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:22 The Laws of God's Chosen House We continue moving indoors, focusing on the innermost Temple Space. The Sacred Sanctum -- or Holy of Holies itself. We are now reaching the climatic Tenth level; the penultimate zenith of Geographic Kedusha! Although included in the structural embrace of the larger Temple Building, Maimonides, quite fascinatingly, pointedly identify it as a proverbial structure onto itself. The fact that only the High Priest, (e.g., Cohen Gadol) can enter -- and that even he is severely restricted in doing so -- is the positive proof of this highest level of Holiness. Interestingly, by this line of logic there seems to an even more restricted area exceeding this sacred space, yet it is ultimately removed from the running! It goes without saying that this climax of sanctity is explicitly spelled out in scripture, and most certainly biblically ordained.

22

HAND AND FOOT RULES

Jul 20, 2022

14:29

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:21 The Laws of God's Chosen House Moving inwards from the outdoor space known as the “Arena of the Alter” where biblical grade restrictions (at least in the opinion of the Rambam) may already have applied, although by scriptural ordination there was never any formal line of sacred scrimmage drawn. We now move indoors into the Temple Building itself. Additional restrictions linked to purification procedures become indicative of Higher Holiness. Whether this added layer of sanctity is of biblical origin is a part of the lesson itself.

23

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Jul 16, 2021

24:03

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:20 The Laws of God's Chosen House THE GREAT OUTDOORS - Trespassing. Broken Bodies & Torn Tunics Moving inwards from the Ezrat Kohanim (lit. Courtyard of Cohanim) we encounter outdoor space known as the “Arena of the Alter.” From this point onwards, additional biblical grade restrictions (at least in the opinion of the Rambam) apply, although by scriptural ordination there was never any formal line of sacred scrimmage drawn. This, of course, sounds rather odd and does require a fuller explanation. Yet, the fact remains that notwithstanding, absence of Torah Law defining a shift in space, the increased level of restriction applies by dint of an actual biblical verses. Furthermore, from Rambam’s perspective it remains reflective, or perhaps is even tethered to the Commandment of the “Awe and Reverence” due at the hollowed site of the Beit HaMikdash. A Mitzvah that is woven into the entire fabric of this variegated chapter. Interestingly, at this point the rules that disallow entry refer not to ordinary Israelites (which is self understood) but rather Cohanim who are not allowed to serve due to physical blemish, (lack of sobriety) and being in a dishevelled or unkempt state. Here, the no trespassing rule is due to a clearly defined status exemplified by “Broken Bodies” or “Torn Tunics.”

24

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Jul 16, 2021

24:03

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:20 The Laws of God's Chosen House THE GREAT OUTDOORS - Trespassing. Broken Bodies & Torn Tunics Moving inwards from the Ezrat Kohanim (lit. Courtyard of Cohanim) we encounter outdoor space known as the “Arena of the Alter.” From this point onwards, additional biblical grade restrictions (at least in the opinion of the Rambam) apply, although by scriptural ordination there was never any formal line of sacred scrimmage drawn. This, of course, sounds rather odd and does require a fuller explanation. Yet, the fact remains that notwithstanding, absence of Torah Law defining a shift in space, the increased level of restriction applies by dint of an actual biblical verses. Furthermore, from Rambam’s perspective it remains reflective, or perhaps is even tethered to the Commandment of the “Awe and Reverence” due at the hollowed site of the Beit HaMikdash. A Mitzvah that is woven into the entire fabric of this variegated chapter. Interestingly, at this point the rules that disallow entry refer not to ordinary Israelites (which is self understood) but rather Cohanim who are not allowed to serve due to physical blemish, (lack of sobriety) and being in a dishevelled or unkempt state. Here, the no trespassing rule is due to a clearly defined status exemplified by “Broken Bodies” or “Torn Tunics.”

25

ORDER IN THE COURT

Jul 14, 2021

27:09

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:17 The Laws of God's Chosen House ORDER IN THE COURT -Same-Day Immersion and Prohibitive Grades. Although we now seem to be leaving the outer layers of the Temple Mount area, entering the actual Beit HaMikdash compound itself, by biblical law we have not yet progressed. Despite the apparent paradigm shift in sacred scrimmage achieved when entering the structurally encircled outer courtyard know as Ezrat Nashim (lit. the Women’s Courtyard) the increased level of restriction reflective of the next level of geographic holiness was created by the Sanhedrin and is, in fact, not legislated by the Torah itself. As explained in previous episodes, according to Rambam, the rational for the “artificial” rabbinical orchestration of layered sanctity flows directly from the biblical command to Revere the Temple area. As such, notwithstanding the biblical terminology and form of Tuma'ah (ritual impurity) being referenced, the absence of a biblical consequence demonstrates its rabbinic regulatory nature.

26

ORDER IN THE COURT

Jul 14, 2021

27:09

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:17 The Laws of God's Chosen House ORDER IN THE COURT -Same-Day Immersion and Prohibitive Grades. Although we now seem to be leaving the outer layers of the Temple Mount area, entering the actual Beit HaMikdash compound itself, by biblical law we have not yet progressed. Despite the apparent paradigm shift in sacred scrimmage achieved when entering the structurally encircled outer courtyard know as Ezrat Nashim (lit. the Women’s Courtyard) the increased level of restriction reflective of the next level of geographic holiness was created by the Sanhedrin and is, in fact, not legislated by the Torah itself. As explained in previous episodes, according to Rambam, the rational for the “artificial” rabbinical orchestration of layered sanctity flows directly from the biblical command to Revere the Temple area. As such, notwithstanding the biblical terminology and form of Tuma'ah (ritual impurity) being referenced, the absence of a biblical consequence demonstrates its rabbinic regulatory nature.

27

THE WOMEN COURT

Jul 14, 2021

20:13

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:17 The Laws of God's Chosen House THE WOMEN COURT - Same-Day Immersion and Prohibitive Grades Although we now seem to be leaving the outer layers of the Temple Mount area, entering the actual Beit HaMikdash compound itself, by biblical law we have not yet progressed. Despite the apparent paradigm shift in sacred scrimmage achieved when entering the structurally encircled outer courtyard know as Ezrat Nashim (lit. the Women’s Courtyard) the increased level of restriction reflective of the next level of geographic holiness was created by the Sanhedrin and is, in fact, not legislated by the Torah itself. As explained in previous episodes, according to Rambam, the rational for the “artificial” rabbinical orchestration of layered sanctity flows directly from the biblical command to Revere the Temple area. As such, notwithstanding the biblical terminology and form of Tuma'ah (ritual impurity) being referenced, the absence of a biblical consequence demonstrates its rabbinic regulatory nature.

28

THE WOMEN COURT

Jul 14, 2021

20:13

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:17 The Laws of God's Chosen House THE WOMEN COURT - Same-Day Immersion and Prohibitive Grades Although we now seem to be leaving the outer layers of the Temple Mount area, entering the actual Beit HaMikdash compound itself, by biblical law we have not yet progressed. Despite the apparent paradigm shift in sacred scrimmage achieved when entering the structurally encircled outer courtyard know as Ezrat Nashim (lit. the Women’s Courtyard) the increased level of restriction reflective of the next level of geographic holiness was created by the Sanhedrin and is, in fact, not legislated by the Torah itself. As explained in previous episodes, according to Rambam, the rational for the “artificial” rabbinical orchestration of layered sanctity flows directly from the biblical command to Revere the Temple area. As such, notwithstanding the biblical terminology and form of Tuma'ah (ritual impurity) being referenced, the absence of a biblical consequence demonstrates its rabbinic regulatory nature.

29

OUTER SPACE ORBIT

Jul 12, 2021

26:34

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:16 The Laws of God's Chosen House OUTER SPACE ORBIT -Arena of Sanctity. For Pure Members Only Zeroing in from Temple Mount, we encounter the next sacred line of scrimmage drawn on the famous Tabletop Mountain Plataea encircling the Beit HaMikdash arena. Here we learn of the increased level of restriction reflecting yet the next level of geographic holiness. Interestingly, an outer line of demarcation is not of consequence in this equation of artificially orchestrated layered sanctity. This arena of specialized sanctity was, according to Rambam, walled in, resembling a defensive style rampart fortification. The growing list of individuals proscribed from entering past this point include both rabbinic and biblical form of Tuma'ah (ritual impurity). And as such, narrowed the allowance of entrance to "Members-of-the-Tribe" only, and only to those who were in an advanced state of Tahara (ritual purity).

30

OUTER SPACE ORBIT

Jul 12, 2021

26:34

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:16 The Laws of God's Chosen House OUTER SPACE ORBIT -Arena of Sanctity. For Pure Members Only Zeroing in from Temple Mount, we encounter the next sacred line of scrimmage drawn on the famous Tabletop Mountain Plataea encircling the Beit HaMikdash arena. Here we learn of the increased level of restriction reflecting yet the next level of geographic holiness. Interestingly, an outer line of demarcation is not of consequence in this equation of artificially orchestrated layered sanctity. This arena of specialized sanctity was, according to Rambam, walled in, resembling a defensive style rampart fortification. The growing list of individuals proscribed from entering past this point include both rabbinic and biblical form of Tuma'ah (ritual impurity). And as such, narrowed the allowance of entrance to "Members-of-the-Tribe" only, and only to those who were in an advanced state of Tahara (ritual purity).

31

THE TEMPLE MOUNT

Jul 12, 2021

34:21

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:15 The Laws of God's Chosen House THE TEMPLE MOUNT - Next Level Sanctity. Live Impure & the Dead. Moving in from Jerusalem, we enter the sacred Tabletop Mountain Plataea that housed the Beit HaMikdash arena. A higher level of Ritual Purity restrictions and observances reflects the Greater Holiness, as we are now moving onto Next Level Sanctity. Surprisingly, the detailed list of individuals proscribed from entering do not include the most extreme form of Tuma'ah as in this inner scrimmage of holiness we are permitted to Welcome the Grateful Dead, and the Undertaker too!

32

THE TEMPLE MOUNT

Jul 12, 2021

34:21

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:15 The Laws of God's Chosen House THE TEMPLE MOUNT - Next Level Sanctity. Live Impure & the Dead. Moving in from Jerusalem, we enter the sacred Tabletop Mountain Plataea that housed the Beit HaMikdash arena. A higher level of Ritual Purity restrictions and observances reflects the Greater Holiness, as we are now moving onto Next Level Sanctity. Surprisingly, the detailed list of individuals proscribed from entering do not include the most extreme form of Tuma'ah as in this inner scrimmage of holiness we are permitted to Welcome the Grateful Dead, and the Undertaker too!

33

HOUSING IN HOLINESS

Jul 9, 2021

31:01

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:14b The Laws of God's Chosen House HOUSING IN HOLINESS - Different Kind of Real Estate Rules The previous rules and regulations were designed to effectively preserve the honour and awe due Jerusalem, host city of the Beit HaMikdash or ease observance of Ritual Purity to better facilitate Temple-centric Mitzvot. The concluding litany of laws governing the Holy City's unique Rules on Residences were resultant of Jerusalem's singular inclusive character as the Heritage Property of the Nation, and entirely transcending otherwise Tribalism or Sectarian Division amongst the Jewish People. The subject covered include the no binding finality of and property sales, the exclusion of otherwise Condemned Homes, non-aggression against even heinous Municipal Mutiny, and the non-participation in drawing attention to an Unsolved Murder in the hope and finding the perpetrator!

34

HOUSING IN HOLINESS

Jul 9, 2021

31:01

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:14b The Laws of God's Chosen House HOUSING IN HOLINESS - Different Kind of Real Estate Rules The previous rules and regulations were designed to effectively preserve the honour and awe due Jerusalem, host city of the Beit HaMikdash or ease observance of Ritual Purity to better facilitate Temple-centric Mitzvot. The concluding litany of laws governing the Holy City's unique Rules on Residences were resultant of Jerusalem's singular inclusive character as the Heritage Property of the Nation, and entirely transcending otherwise Tribalism or Sectarian Division amongst the Jewish People. The subject covered include the no binding finality of and property sales, the exclusion of otherwise Condemned Homes, non-aggression against even heinous Municipal Mutiny, and the non-participation in drawing attention to an Unsolved Murder in the hope and finding the perpetrator!

35

CITY WITHOUT CERAMICS OR CHICKENS

Jul 8, 2021

23:12

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:14c The Laws of God's Chosen House CITY WITHOUT CERAMICS OR CHICKENS - No Smoking. Ban on Birds. More of the limitations imposed due to the prominence and pragmatism of best preserving the special status Judaism’s most Sacred City. Further to the previous episode, since Jerusalem hosts the Beit HaMikdash it must be maintained to best reflect the honour and dignity of this hallowed edifice as well naturally facilitate Temple-centric Mitzvot. In pursuit of maintaining a pristine Ceramic Kilns were proscribed due to the volume of Rising Smoke and the stone façade discoloration they might cause. The Raising of Chickens was banned as birds who do not fly forage in the dumps and can easily import ritual impurity. Interestingly, the logic behind this Jerusalem restriction led to the legislation of Province-wide Priestly Prohibitions!

36

CITY WITHOUT CERAMICS OR CHICKENS

Jul 8, 2021

23:12

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:14c The Laws of God's Chosen House CITY WITHOUT CERAMICS OR CHICKENS - No Smoking. Ban on Birds. More of the limitations imposed due to the prominence and pragmatism of best preserving the special status Judaism’s most Sacred City. Further to the previous episode, since Jerusalem hosts the Beit HaMikdash it must be maintained to best reflect the honour and dignity of this hallowed edifice as well naturally facilitate Temple-centric Mitzvot. In pursuit of maintaining a pristine Ceramic Kilns were proscribed due to the volume of Rising Smoke and the stone façade discoloration they might cause. The Raising of Chickens was banned as birds who do not fly forage in the dumps and can easily import ritual impurity. Interestingly, the logic behind this Jerusalem restriction led to the legislation of Province-wide Priestly Prohibitions!

37

TEMPLE CITY PLANTING PROHIBITIONS

Jul 7, 2021

15:43

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:14b The Laws of God's Chosen House TEMPLE CITY PLANTING PROHIBITIONS - Gardens. Dumps & Building We continue to explore the defining hallmarks of holiness in Judaism’s most Sacred City, Jerusalem! Per previous episodes, the municipality housing the Beit HaMikdash is uniquely situated to facilitate Temple-centric Mitzvot and thrice annually host the Holiday Pilgrimages. This meant that both a high level of cleanliness, and respect as well as an equally high state of Ritual Purity was required. Life in the city had to honour the Shechina and be naturally conducive to maintaining a pristine and elevated state of Spiritual Purity. To this end, our Sages enacted various Gardening Regulations, Planting and Farming Restrictions. Plus, Garbage Dumps were banned, and rigorous building codes were enacted to prevent additional possible hazards of Ritual Impurity.

38

TEMPLE CITY PLANTING PROHIBITIONS

Jul 7, 2021

15:43

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:14b The Laws of God's Chosen House TEMPLE CITY PLANTING PROHIBITIONS - Gardens. Dumps & Building We continue to explore the defining hallmarks of holiness in Judaism’s most Sacred City, Jerusalem! Per previous episodes, the municipality housing the Beit HaMikdash is uniquely situated to facilitate Temple-centric Mitzvot and thrice annually host the Holiday Pilgrimages. This meant that both a high level of cleanliness, and respect as well as an equally high state of Ritual Purity was required. Life in the city had to honour the Shechina and be naturally conducive to maintaining a pristine and elevated state of Spiritual Purity. To this end, our Sages enacted various Gardening Regulations, Planting and Farming Restrictions. Plus, Garbage Dumps were banned, and rigorous building codes were enacted to prevent additional possible hazards of Ritual Impurity.

39

SANCTUARY CITY OF DREAMS

Jul 6, 2021

38:11

Rambam- Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:14a The Laws of God's Chosen House SANCTUARY CITY OF DREAMS - Food. Funerals. Rent. Royal Graves From our ancient “Holy Cities,” we now move onto a discovery detailing The Nation of Israel's Eternal Holy City by identifying the defining hallmarks of Judaism’s Monarchic Municipality: Law and Order on Edible Holiness Sacred Consumption. Numerous Post-Mortem Limitations. Absolute Rent Control Policy and the unique Regulations on Royal Graveyards.

40

SANCTUARY CITY OF DREAMS

Jul 6, 2021

38:11

Rambam- Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:14a The Laws of God's Chosen House SANCTUARY CITY OF DREAMS - Food. Funerals. Rent. Royal Graves From our ancient “Holy Cities,” we now move onto a discovery detailing The Nation of Israel's Eternal Holy City by identifying the defining hallmarks of Judaism’s Monarchic Municipality: Law and Order on Edible Holiness Sacred Consumption. Numerous Post-Mortem Limitations. Absolute Rent Control Policy and the unique Regulations on Royal Graveyards.

41

DISTURBING THE DEAD

Jul 5, 2021

18:27

Rambam - Hilchot Beit HaBechira 7:13b The Laws of God's Chosen House DISTURBING THE DEAD: Moving Violations . Royal Exceptions Now more about Israel's ancient “Holy Cities,” where living in sacred precincts was kind to the living, but not so accommodating to the dead! Discover the additional rules and regulations that applied uniquely to sanctuary cities of antiquity that were deemed to be hallowed and required a higher level of organic predisposition to holiness on a very practical level. Learn more about those municipalities that were “Walled into Consecration,” along with ritual law that governed the Expansionist Designs of City Council with startling leniencies on the relocation of old gravesites with regard to Dead Prophets, Kings, and a most unusual 50 Yard Line of Scrimmage that can make all the difference regarding the disinterment of human remains.

42

SACRED SANCTUARY CITIES - Evictions & Forbidden Funerals

Jul 2, 2021

17:56

Rambam - Hilchot Beit HaBechira 7:13a The Laws of God's Chosen House SACRED SANCTUARY CITIES - Evictions & Forbidden Funerals Did you know that in Israel of antiquity the term “Holy City” didn’t necessarily refer to Jerusalem, and likely wasn’t a reference to Safed either?! Discover the and ancient conception of sanctuary cities that were deemed to be sacred, and perhaps even more importantly what that meant to its residents on a practical level. Learn how our Divinely Ordained Holy Land once contained upgraded levels of holiness in specific municipalities that were “Walled into Consecration,” along with fascinating and little-known ritual law that governed when certain city-dwellers might be legally evicted, restricted burial and even the transportation of human remains.

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THE DIRT ON SACRED SOIL

Jun 30, 2021

14:20

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:12 The Laws of God's Chosen House THE DIRT ON SACRED SOIL Most people have heard the term “The Holy Land” but few can clearly define it. Rationally speaking, all can lifeless earth be holy. Why would general geography even make a difference? Welcome to “Harvesting Holiness” as we learn the Agriculturally Defining Hallmarks of Our Divinely Ordained Holy Land that in the end has everything to do with a unique yield of Mitzvah observance!

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Temple City Planning - The Divine, Priestly And Sacred

Jun 30, 2021

14:27

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:11b The Laws of God's Chosen House - , To achieve the biblically ordained legal demarcations of geographic holiness, we are forced to superimpose the ancient Sinai's schematic onto Jerusalem's municipal layout. Doing so enables us to designate Divine Dwelling, Priestly Precincts and the wider orbit of Sacred Scrimmages. This enables us to later map out the footprint of the proverbial Food Courts and Activity Zones designated for unique Mitzvah performance!

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CAMPING IN THE DESERT!

Jun 29, 2021

17:28

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:11a The Laws of God's Chosen House CAMPING IN THE DESERT! A new look at our Sinai Sojourns and Desert Encampments during our 40 years of post-Exodus wanderings enroute to The Promised Land with Moses. Discover the how that Historic Schematic became the basis for Jerusalem’s Municipal Blueprint!

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ILLEGAL IMITATIONS vs RIGHTEOUS REPLICATIONS

Jun 28, 2021

16:02

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:10 The Laws of God's Chosen House ILLEGAL IMITATIONS vs RIGHTEOUS REPLICATIONS The Torah on Temple Replacement Theology: The prohibition on Replicating Temple Architecture and Artifacts clarified and explained!

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Rules On Personal Relief And Rest

Jul 31, 2020

18:26

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:9 The Laws of God's Chosen House Rules on Personal Relief and Rest Temple-centric Focus translates into Pious Positioning and Furniture Arrangements: covering a range of Washroom to Bedroom!

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The Outer Scrimmages Of Scopus

Jul 30, 2020

7:26

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:8 The Laws of God's Chosen House The Outer Scrimmages Of Scopus Scrimmages of Scopus Sanctity. Prohibited by the Line of Vision. Saved by the Barrier!

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Our Respect And Reverence In Ruins

Jul 29, 2020

16:34

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:7 The Laws of God's Chosen House Our Respect And Reverence In Ruins Staying Sacred Despite Destruction. Temple Etiquette is in Juxtaposition with Shabbat Observance!

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Sacred Structure Policy Standing Room Only!

Jul 27, 2020

12:01

Rambam - Hilchot Beit Habechirah 7:6 The Laws of God's Chosen House Sacred Structure Policy: Standing Room Only! Sacred Scrimmage —the Rules on Sitting. Royal Exceptions. The Sanhedrin’s Space!

Rambam with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan- The Laws of God's Chosen House (Hilchot Beit Habechirah)

Rambam with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan- The Laws of God's Chosen House (Hilchot Beit Habechirah)

More by Rabbi Mendel Kaplan