יחזקאל, פרק מ״ב, פסוק י״ג

Following a detailed architectural tour of the Temple, the focus shifts to the practical and sacred purpose of its rooms. The angelic guide speaking with the prophet [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ] identifies the northern and southern chambers, which extend westward from the wall toward the Temple, as spaces of strict holiness.

These specific rooms share the same high level of sanctity as the inner courtyard of the priests, which is situated further inward than the general courtyard of the Israelites [רד״ק, אברבנאל, מצודת דוד]. This elevated status stands in direct contrast to other rooms within the Temple complex, which hold no special sanctity and are considered ordinary spaces [מלבי״ם].

The primary function of these holy chambers is to provide a designated space for the priests to eat the sacred offerings. However, this privilege is reserved for those who are considered close to God. The primary approach among commentators is that this refers specifically to the descendants of Zadok, priests who maintained their loyalty to God and refused to participate in idol worship. Because of this devotion, only they are fit to perform the sacred service and partake in the offerings [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Another perspective suggests that this requirement serves to exclude any disqualified priests, specifically those who are spiritually or physically uncircumcised [רד״ק, אברבנאל].

When the guide mentions placing the offerings in these rooms, it does not merely refer to storage. Rather, the items are brought there specifically to be eaten within the confines of the chambers [מצודת דוד, רד״ק, אברבנאל]. The types of sacrifices brought to this area are first described as the most holy offerings in a general sense, followed by a specific list that includes the meal, sin, and guilt offerings. Commentators explain that the initial, broader category is deliberately used to include communal peace offerings and burnt offerings. Even though these are not sin or guilt offerings, they carry the same strict requirements and are meant to be placed or eaten in this exact holy space alongside the other sacred sacrifices [רד״ק, מלבי״ם, אברבנאל, מצודת דוד].