3,869. The Height Differential

Hilchos Beis HaBechirah 6:5

Following the measurements found in the preceding few halachos, we see that the ground under the Heichal was 22 cubits higher (about 33’) than the ground under the eastern gate. The eastern gate was 20 cubits tall (about 30’), so someone standing across from it couldn’t see the opening of the Heichal. Therefore, the wall over the eastern gate was built low, so that the kohein standing on the Mount of Olives could see the opening of the Heichal when sprinkling the blood of the parah adumah (the red heifer).

Hilchos Beis HaBechirah 6:6

There were chambers under the Israelite courtyard that opened to the women’s section. This was where the Leviim kept their various musical instruments. When singing songs over the offerings, the Leviim would stand on the platform that went from the Israelite courtyard up to the ezras kohanim.