To remove the ashes from the altar every day

Holiness – קְדֻשָּׁה

• Sefer HaChinuch (132) teaches that sanctity extends even to the remnants of korbanot, as the ashes themselves are holy. By treating them with dignity, holiness is preserved and extended into every detail of avodah. Ramban (Lev. 6:3) stresses that the altar’s renewal each day reaffirms its sanctity.

Temple – בֵּית הַמִּקְדָּשׁ

• Rambam (Temidin 2:12) emphasizes that Terumat HaDeshen marked the beginning of the day’s avodah, symbolizing the Temple’s ongoing vitality. Midrash Rabbah (Vayikra 7:4) explains that the Mikdash teaches respect not only in grandeur but even in humble tasks like ash removal.

Mizbeach – מִזְבֵּחַ

• Talmud (Yoma 21a) records that the Kohanim would rush for the privilege of removing ashes, highlighting that even this “lowly” task was central to the altar’s service. Rashi (Lev. 6:3) explains that ashes were set beside the Mizbeach, showing continuity of service, not abandonment.

Sacrifices – קָרְבָּנוֹת

• Rambam (Korbanot 2:13) explains that korbanot cannot be properly offered until the ashes are cleared. This mitzvah ensures that each new sacrifice begins with preparation and order. Sifri (Tzav §19) connects the daily ash removal to the continual rhythm of sacrifices, showing that service requires renewal.

Humility – עֲנָוָה

• Talmud (Yoma 22a) describes that young Kohanim competed for this duty, despite it being menial. The Sefer HaChinuch highlights that this instills humility, teaching that true service to Hashem includes dignity in small tasks, not just great ones. Midrash Tanchuma (Tzav 15) emphasizes that humility before Hashem elevates the Kohen’s service.

Reverence – יִרְאַת שָׁמַיִם

• Rashi (Lev. 6:3) points out the linen garments worn during ash removal, reminding us that even simple tasks must be carried out with dignity and awe. Rambam (Temidin 2:13) codifies that neglect of the ashes would reflect irreverence, undermining proper service.

Faith – אֱמוּנָה

• Sefer HaChinuch (132) explains that daily renewal of the altar’s service reminds Israel that Hashem’s providence renews constantly. Just as the altar was cleared and prepared anew, so too Hashem grants life and sustenance each day.

Bein Adam L’Makom – בֵּין אָדָם לְמָקוֹם

• Rambam (Sefer HaMitzvot, Aseh 29) teaches that this mitzvah expresses direct service to Hashem, symbolizing devotion in every detail of the Mikdash. By clearing the ashes with care, the Kohanim demonstrate that nothing connected to Hashem’s service is trivial.