The Kohanim are divided into twenty-four mishmaros [family groups], and normally one mishmar would serve in the Mikdash at a time. During the three regalim, every Kohen in the nation would be present in the Mikdash and they would all participate in the day's work. Imagine the scene with thousands of Kohanim from all parts of the country all gathering on the steps of the Ulam to recite birkas Kohanim together.
These steps could hold over 2,000 men standing shoulder-to-shoulder.
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| Steps of the Ulam. |
We are told that when there was not enough room on the steps for the Kohanim then the overflow crowd would stand on the duchan, the platform to the east of the Mizbeyach where the Leviim would normally stand to sing and play musical instruments to accompany the daily service.
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| Lego® minifigures line the steps of the Ulam to deliver the Birkas Kohanim on Sukkos. |
There is some discussion about whether a Kohen who is blemished may participate in the birkas Kohanim (see Taanis 27a with Tosafos אי מה משרת and Orach Chaim 128 with Magen Avraham §54). Apparently, the Kohanim in my picture maintain that it is permitted.
Hi rav Elan, I know that T"Y says that the steps of the ulam took up the whole front of the ulam but Ezras Cohanim says there were steps on the sides of the steps (that is how he explains טרוטות in mishna 5 perek 2) and T"Y doesn't say there weren't?
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comment. I double checked TY at Middos 3:6 §61 and he writes that the steps of the Ulam covered the entire face of the building to the extent that the Otem was not visible at all. If the steps turned in at the corners, as you suggest, then the Otem would be visible at the northeastern and southeastern corners of the Ulam. Hope that addresses your question.
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