The Temple Institute: In-Depth Temple Study: The Area between the Ulam and the Mizbeach: The Parts of the Laver: The Muchni
 
The Area between the Ulam and the Mizbeach: The Parts of the Laver: The Muchni: Dimensions (continued)

According to the Rambam, the Muchni, was a separate, unique vessel which was not a sanctified vessel of service. Since the law of water becoming unsuitable for use in the Mikdash applies only to water that was stored overnight in a sanctified vessel, a vessel that was not sanctified could be used for water storage. This opinion maintains that the muchni was an unsanctified vessel that was installed on top of the laver. At dusk the water in the laver was transferred into it so that the laver water would not become unfit by staying in it overnight. At dawn the water was transferred back into the laver for use during the day. 
Contents:   Part I,    Part II,    Part III,    Part IV,    Part V,    Part VI,    Part VII