The Kohen work shifts must be equal during holidays

Holiness – קְדֻשָּׁה

• Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 4:4) explains that equal priestly service during the Festivals maintains the sanctity of the Mikdash. Holiness is upheld when every kohen, regardless of family, is given the same access to Hashem’s service. This unity of participation demonstrates that holiness is not the property of individuals but belongs equally to all who serve Hashem.

Priests – כֹּהֲנִים

• Sefer HaChinuch teaches that kohanim were commanded to share the Temple service equally during Festivals so that none would feel excluded. This command prevents division within the priesthood and strengthens their bond as Hashem’s chosen servants.

Temple – בֵּית הַמִּקְדָּשׁ

• The Temple’s proper functioning required that all 24 mishmarot work together during the pilgrimage Festivals. Equal division of service and portions preserved dignity, reverence, and balance in the Mikdash.

Justice – צֶדֶק

• Talmud (Sukkah 55b) emphasizes fairness: all kohanim received equal portions, regardless of lineage or watch. This mitzvah established justice, eliminating favoritism and promoting harmony within sacred service.

Community – קְהִלָּה

• The Festivals gathered all Israel in Jerusalem. Equal priestly service mirrored this national unity, ensuring the kohanim reflected the communal equality of the people they represented before Hashem.

Holidays – חַגִּים

• The mitzvah is specific to the pilgrimage Festivals, when the whole nation ascended to Jerusalem. Equal participation by kohanim underscored the holiness and inclusivity of these days, reinforcing their communal and national significance.

Reverence – יִרְאַת שָׁמַיִם

• Rashi stresses that kohanim must serve equally during the Festivals because the service belongs to Hashem, not to human appointment. This fosters reverence by reminding Israel that Divine law, not human choice, governs worship.

Bein Adam L’Makom – בֵּין אָדָם לְמָקוֹם

• By giving all kohanim equal opportunity in service, Israel recognizes Hashem as the true sanctifier. The mitzvah reflects devotion to His command and honors His presence in the Mikdash.

Bein Adam L’Chavero – בֵּין אָדָם לַחֲבֵרוֹ

• This mitzvah fosters harmony and fairness among the kohanim themselves. By ensuring equality, it prevents jealousy and contention, instilling mutual respect and unity in sacred service.