יחזקאל, פרק מ״ד, פסוק כ״א

The requirement for priests to remain entirely sober when entering the sacred grounds is a fundamental law known from the Torah. Its repetition here serves either to introduce new details not explicitly found in the written Torah, or to establish an extra layer of holiness specifically intended for the future Temple [רד״ק].

The instruction is sweeping and absolute, applying to all priests without exception. It binds the High Priest and the regular priest equally [מצודת דוד]. Furthermore, it obligates even disqualified priests who are entirely unfit for Temple service [מלבי״ם]. The restriction is not merely about performing sacred duties while intoxicated. The very act of stepping into the holy compound under the influence of wine is forbidden. A priest violates this law the exact moment he enters the area, regardless of whether he performs any service [חומת אנך].

There are differing views regarding the exact boundaries of the restricted inner courtyard. One perspective identifies this area as the sanctuary itself, noting that the space situated just before the Holy of Holies functions as a courtyard [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. Another approach defines the restricted zone as the Priests' Courtyard. In this view, the prohibition applies to the area beginning from the altar and moving inward, specifically the space between the entrance hall and the altar [רד״ק, אברבנאל, ביאור שטיינזלץ].