דברי הימים ב, פרק ד׳, פסוק י׳

The giant copper basin, known as the Sea, served as an immersion pool for the Priests. Its placement within the Temple courtyard was carefully planned to balance practical needs with the deep respect required for the holy site.

The basin was situated on the eastern side of the Temple, specifically shifted toward the southeast corner of the Priests' courtyard. The decision to place it in this specific corner, rather than directly in the center of the eastern courtyard, was driven entirely by considerations of dignity. If the basin had been placed in the center, it would have sat directly opposite the main entrance to the Sanctuary. Performing immersions and maintaining a pool right in front of the primary doors of the holy Hall was considered highly disrespectful.

To preserve the honor of the Sanctuary, the basin was deliberately moved out of direct alignment with the entrance and set off to the side [רש י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This precise arrangement in the Temple courtyard is also deeply rooted in ancient legal traditions established by the Sages [מלבי ם].