A Kohen must not leave the Temple during service

This mitzvah prohibits kohanim from departing the Temple precincts during their service, ensuring that their focus remains entirely on their sacred duty. The command was given to Aaron and his sons immediately after their consecration, emphasizing that the kohanim’s sanctity, marked by the anointing oil, bound them to remain at their post.

Rambam explains that leaving the Temple while serving undermines the continuity and integrity of the avodah. Sefer HaChinuch teaches that the mitzvah reinforces the kohanim’s responsibility: their entire being is devoted to Hashem while serving, and leaving mid-service would suggest casualness or disregard.

The Torah frames this prohibition with severity, warning that death could result from its violation. This highlights that the kohanim’s service was not ordinary work but Divine service, requiring complete dedication, order, and discipline.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Hilchot Bi’at HaMikdash 2:3): States that a kohen leaving the sanctuary during service is liable to death at the hands of Heaven.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 154): Explains that remaining in place cultivates reverence and prevents lightheartedness toward Hashem’s service.
• Rashi (Lev. 10:7): Notes that Aaron and his sons were warned not to leave during their consecration, showing that the kohanim’s presence is essential to the sanctity of the avodah.
• Talmud (Sanhedrin 83a): Discusses the severity of this prohibition, emphasizing the importance of uninterrupted focus in Divine service.
• Ramban: Adds that the command teaches kohanim to embody constant awareness of Hashem’s presence while serving.