Yitro: Midbar Kodesh-Tzemach Tzaddik: Mitzvah 41 – Concept 303

“You shall not ascend My altar on steps, so that your nakedness will not be uncovered upon it.” (Exodus 20:23) We may not climb steps to the altar. (Rambam, Hilchot Beit HaBechirah – The Laws of The Temple)

Do not say in your heart that you have risen on the ladder of spiritual achievement. (Rabbi Shlomo of Lutzk – Midbar Kodesh)

Even if you have succeeded in sacrificing all your evil inclinations, and reached for the altar of My service, do not become arrogant in your achievement, for that is the most dangerous of  evil desires. (Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Vizhnitz – Tzemach Tzadik)