Which of the following behaviors is explicitly forbidden when entering the Temple Mount?
Taking a shortcut — entering from one gate and exiting the opposite to shorten one's journey — is prohibited as a show of disrespect. One must walk around from outside and enter only for the purpose of a mitzvah.
Question 2
When a mourner circled the Temple Mount, in which direction did he walk — and why?
Everyone normally circles the Temple Mount to the right. A mourner or someone under a ban of ostracism circles to the left, prompting bystanders to ask why and offer prayers or words of comfort on his behalf.
Question 3
Who alone is permitted to sit in the Temple Courtyard?
Sitting in the Temple Courtyard is generally forbidden for everyone. The sole exception is Kings of the House of David, derived from the verse: 'And King David entered and sat before the Lord' (II Samuel 7:18).
Question 4
Who may enter the Holy of Holies, and under what conditions?
The Holy of Holies is the most sacred zone — only the High Priest may enter, and only on Yom Kippur while performing the specific service. He entered four times that day: to offer incense, sprinkle bull's blood, sprinkle the goat's blood, and retrieve the incense vessel.
Question 5
What does the Rambam rule about the halachic status of the Temple Mount today, while the Temple is in ruin?
The Rambam rules that the Temple's kedushah is eternal. Just as Shabbat observance never lapses, the verse 'revere My Sanctuary' applies forever. Even today one may not enter forbidden zones, sit in the Courtyard area, or act frivolously before the Eastern Gate.