יחזקאל, פרק מ׳, פסוק מ״ה

During a prophetic tour of the future Temple, an angelic guide points out specific structures and explains their daily functions. He directs attention to a southern facing chamber, or perhaps a group of chambers, where servants wait before beginning their scheduled shifts [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This space is reserved for those tasked with guarding the Temple, though the exact identity of these guardians is a subject of discussion.

One approach suggests that these individuals are actually Levites whose primary duty is to sing during the services. According to this view, the title of priest is not restricted to the descendants of Aaron, but rather serves as a general term for anyone dedicated to serving God [רש״י, מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון].

Conversely, another perspective maintains that these are literal priests, and their chamber is kept completely separate from the areas assigned to the Levites [רד״ק]. A deeper explanation of this view identifies them as priests who previously engaged in idolatry and were therefore disqualified from performing the sacred duties at the altar. As a result, they were demoted to the role of guarding the Temple, a task that includes singing and playing musical instruments just like the Levites. Because they still belong to the broader tribe of Levi, they are permitted to perform these musical duties. However, a clear physical distinction remains. While the Levites sing from a raised platform, these demoted priests must stand directly on the ground within the southern chamber. Their room is still located inside the main courtyard of the priests because, despite losing their right to serve at the altar, they fundamentally retain their priestly lineage [מלבי״ם].