A Kohen with a physical blemish must not enter the sanctuary or approach the altar

This mitzvah disqualifies kohanim with permanent physical blemishes from entering the Heichal (Sanctuary) or approaching the altar to perform the avodah. While these kohanim remain consecrated, share in the sanctity of priesthood, and may partake of certain offerings, they are barred from service to ensure that Temple worship projects dignity and wholeness.

Rambam rules that this prohibition preserves reverence for the Mikdash by ensuring its service is free of associations with physical imperfection. Sefer HaChinuch explains that the Temple must reflect awe, majesty, and perfection, for it is Hashem’s dwelling among Israel. The prohibition is not a judgment of worth but a reflection of the Temple’s symbolic role as a place of beauty, awe, and sanctity.

The Talmud emphasizes that blemishes disqualify only for service, not for eating consecrated foods, showing that kohanim with blemishes retain their spiritual status. Ramban interprets this as teaching Israel to distinguish between human dignity and the ritual perfection demanded in sacred service.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Hilchot Bi’at HaMikdash 6:6–9): Rules that a kohen with a permanent blemish may not enter the Sanctuary or serve, though he retains rights to priestly gifts.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 275): States that the purpose is to instill reverence by ensuring that Temple service reflects completeness and awe.
• Rashi (Lev. 21:23): Notes that while blemished kohanim are disqualified from service, their sanctity as kohanim remains intact.
• Talmud (Megillah 24b; Zevachim 15b): Discusses the types of blemishes and the disqualification they impose on Temple service.
• Ramban: Teaches that the prohibition conveys a lesson about the symbolic perfection of the Mikdash, not a rejection of blemished individuals.