עזרא, פרק א׳, פסוק ט׳

A detailed inventory records the precise number of holy vessels from the House of God that were returned to Jerusalem. These sacred items are carefully counted and categorized by their specific types, quantities, and the materials from which they were crafted.

Among the returned treasures are large receptacles [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ] or goblets [אבן עזרא]. The exact function of these vessels in the Temple service is understood in two distinct ways. The primary approach among commentators identifies them as basins specifically designed to catch the blood of the animal sacrifices [אבן עזרא, רס״ג, מלבי״ם]. This understanding traces back to early rabbinic traditions, which note that the original term for these vessels hints at their very purpose: gathering the blood of the lamb [אבן עזרא, רס״ג]. Alternatively, another perspective suggests that these vessels were meant for the washing of hands [מצודת ציון, רלב״ג].

The inventory also includes specialized knives and cutting tools used in the Temple for slaughtering, flaying, and preparing the sacrifices [רלב״ג, רס״ג]. These were likely decorated instruments of exceptional quality [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The unique name given to these knives reflects two complementary ideas. Conceptually, it expresses the act of severing and the stark transition from life to death [אבן עזרא, מצודת ציון], a meaning mirrored in the ancient vernacular for a slaughtering knife [רס״ג]. Practically, the name is linked to specific chambers located on either side of the Temple hall. In these dedicated rooms, the priests would carefully store and guard these sacred instruments [רש״י, רס״ג, מצודת ציון].