3,851. The Incense Altar and the Basin

Hilchos Beis HaBechirah 3:17

The incense altar was square – one cubit by one cubit (about 18”x18”). It was placed in the Heichal, exactly between the north and the south, between the Table and the Menorah, towards the outside. These three pieces of furniture were all placed beyond the first third of the Temple, in front of the curtain that separated the Holy from the Holy of Holies.

Hilchos Beis HaBechirah 3:18

The basin had twelve spigots so that all the kohanim who were involved with the daily offering could sanctify their hands and feet simultaneously. The basin had a device that kept it filled with water at all times. This device was secular, so the water in it did not become disqualified for use by remaining overnight. The basin, however, was holy and sanctified its contents. Whatever is sanctified by a holy vessel is disqualified for use by remaining overnight.