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Exodus 20:23 - Modesty in divine service.

Exodus 20:23 - שמות 20:23

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תַעֲלֶה בְמַעֲלֹת עַל־מִזְבְּחִי אֲשֶׁר לֹא־תִגָּלֶה עֶרְוָתְךָ עָלָיו׃

English Translation

Neither shalt thou go up by steps to my altar, that thy nakedness be not exposed on it.

Transliteration

Ve-lo-ta'aleh ve-ma'alot al-mizbechi asher lo-tigaleh ervatecha alav.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תַעֲלֶ֥ה בְמַעֲלֹ֖ת עַֽל־מִזְבְּחִ֑י אֲשֶׁ֛ר לֹֽא־תִגָּלֶ֥ה עֶרְוָתְךָ֖ עָלָֽיו׃ <span class="mam-spi-pe">{פ}</span><br>
וְלֹֽא־תַעֲלֶ֥ה בְמַעֲלֹ֖ת עַֽל־מִזְבְּחִ֑י אֲשֶׁ֛ר לֹֽא־תִגָּלֶ֥ה עֶרְוָתְךָ֖ עָלָֽיו׃ {פ}

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Prohibition of Steps on the Altar

The verse (Shemot 20:23) prohibits ascending the altar using steps, instead requiring the use of a ramp. Rashi explains that this commandment is given to prevent gilui ervah (exposure of nakedness) due to the wider strides required when climbing steps. The concern is not merely physical exposure but also maintaining the dignity and sanctity of the Mizbeach (altar).

Dignity and Sanctity in Divine Service

Rambam (Hilchot Beit HaBechirah 1:16) elaborates that the ramp was designed with gentle inclines to ensure the Kohanim could ascend with modest and measured steps. The Talmud (Sukkah 51b) further emphasizes that every detail of the Beit HaMikdash was structured to uphold kedushah (holiness) and avoid any semblance of impropriety.

Symbolic Meaning

The Midrash (Mechilta d'Rabbi Yishmael) suggests that the prohibition also carries a deeper lesson: just as one must approach the altar with physical modesty, so too must one approach Avodat Hashem (divine service) with humility and reverence. The absence of steps symbolizes that spiritual elevation should be gradual and deliberate, not rushed or haphazard.

  • Halachic Implementation: The Mizbeach's ramp was required to be at least 32 cubits long (Zevachim 62a) to ensure dignified ascent.
  • Moral Lesson: The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 40) connects this law to the broader principle of derech eretz (proper conduct) in sacred spaces.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sotah 40a
The verse is cited in a discussion about the proper conduct and modesty required when approaching sacred spaces, emphasizing the importance of maintaining dignity in religious practices.
📖 Megillah 31a
Referenced in the context of the laws regarding the reading of the Torah, highlighting the broader principle of reverence in worship and the avoidance of any impropriety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does the Torah prohibit using steps to approach the altar?
A: The Torah prohibits using steps to approach the altar (Exodus 20:23) to prevent immodesty ('that your nakedness not be exposed'). Rashi explains that climbing steps could cause a person's garments to shift, potentially revealing what should remain covered. Instead, the Mishkan (Tabernacle) altar had a ramp (Exodus 27:5), allowing dignified and modest access.
Q: What is the deeper meaning behind the altar's design in this verse?
A: The Rambam (Hilchos Beis Habechira 1:16) teaches that the prohibition against steps and the requirement for a ramp reflect the importance of approaching holy matters with dignity and mindfulness. The physical design reminds us to elevate ourselves spiritually when serving Hashem, avoiding any behavior that might diminish reverence.
Q: How does this verse apply to behavior in synagogues today?
A: While this verse specifically discusses the Mishkan's altar, Chazal derive a general principle about maintaining modesty and decorum in holy spaces. The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 151) rules that synagogues should be treated with respect, avoiding any immodest or frivolous behavior, as they are modern-day 'Mikdash Me'at' (miniature sanctuaries).
Q: Why is modesty important when serving Hashem?
A: The Talmud (Yevamos 63b) teaches that holiness requires boundaries—both physical and spiritual. Just as the Kohanim wore special garments 'for dignity and beauty' (Exodus 28:2), this verse emphasizes that our approach to divine service must reflect reverence. The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 26) adds that external modesty cultivates inner humility before Hashem.