Ezekiel 44:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

After these revelations were imparted to the Prophet, he once again beheld the splendor of God at the gate facing north. He was commanded to relay to the people, who were angry, curious, or obstinate—terms similarly interpreted by others—that they may be granted forgiveness for their past transgressions. They had recklessly allowed the entry of foreigners and the uncircumcised into the Lord’s temple. Their cardinal sin was not merely in possessing uncircumcised flesh but, more crucially, their hearts also remained uncircumcised. This illustrates that the true circumcision lies within the heart, while that of the flesh serves merely as a sign and seal of what occurs in the spirit. Thus, the God of all commands that those who are uncircumcised in spirit and foreign in body refrain from approaching His sanctuary. Likewise, the Levites, who have shared in the people's iniquities and delighted in idol worship, are to be expelled from their positions and barred from the temple gates. They neglected to offer up burnt or sin offerings, and they drew near neither to the sacrifices, instead reaping disgrace for their iniquities. Only one lineage of the Zadokites, who remained devoted to their forebears, continued to serve, protect the temple, and fulfill all other duties. Scripture, as noted by the Prophet, dictates that they shall not wear woolen garments at all, but will don linen during their priestly duties; each will bear a turban on their head and be girded with a sash. However, the people must depart from one another, disrobe from their priestly vestments, and, having put on other attire, exit through the gates, for it is unlawful for anyone outside the priesthood to approach the priestly garments.