If you look at vs 8-11, there's a pretty uncommon injection of protocol, which may suggest that the two were drunk at the time.
An iteresting aside rarely mentioned in this chapter is highlighted in vs 16 through the end of the chapter. This passage is often used to illustrate legalistic worship stances(the "strange fire" was an unauthorized worship practice). However, Aaron and his remaining progeny outright refuse to perform their duty as priests in the last of the chapter because they are not emotionally prepared. Not only are they not punished, but it's even noted that Moses was satisfied with their answer.
Good to see others appreciating Lev. I find it funny that a number of people consider themselves able to give the summary word on Lev and never even saw the ring cycle (with the focal point as c.19).
As David deSilva's comment on the modern version of purity goes, "the holy is not so powerful and dangerous as to require that only professionals have direct relations with it, but the way to God stands open for all." (Honor, Patronage, Kinship & Purity, p. 242)
He contrasts this with Is 6:1-8, and Peter's plea that "the Holy One should leave the presence of the sinful fisherman" in Luke 5:8.
Interesting apologetic implications too. 
Some of your readers may be interested in also checking out a blog that frequently addressed Christian apologetics and often has a quirky, yet insightful look at church-related news:
http://hereswhyurwrong.blogspot.com/
Thanks for the article. It helped me write an article on the same passage.
http://www.chrismoncus.com/unaut...uthorized-fire/
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