Moshe is commanded to prepare special garments for the priests to wear in the Mishkan (Mikdash). The Torah states that the purpose of these garments is:
“Make sacred vestments for your brother Aaron, for dignity and splendor” (Shemot 28/2)
The priestly garments are meant to create dignity and splendor but whose dignity and splendor?
The Eben Ezra explains, “They shall glorify themselves with these garments, for no other Israelite shall wear similar garments”. Ramban takes this idea one step further and shows how each of the garments represents the dress of royalty. The Netziv explains the need for these garments, “Since Aharon needed to behave in a manner that is refined and separated from other people. This can only be done in a way that he is respected in the eyes of people, so they understand he is on a higher spiritual plane then them, not just haughty. For this purpose the garments were intended for dignity and splendor so they understand God desires him as a chariot for the Holy Spirit.”
According to this approach, the garments are intended to enhance the dignity and splendor of the priest in the eyes of the people.
Ramban also offers an alternate understanding.
“By way of the Truth, [the mystic teachings of the Cabala,] majesty is to kavod (glory) and to tiphereth (splendor),43Cabalistic terms for certain Emanations. the verse thus stating that they should make holy garments for Aaron to minister in them to the Glory of G-d Who dwells in their midst, and to the Splendor of their strength, as it is written, For Thou art the Glory of their strength.”
It is the glory and splendor of God and his sanctuary that are enhanced by the priestly garments.
Rabbi Ovadya Sefornu suggests that both these ideas are to be found in the verse. “Glory – to render honour and glory to the Almighty through the wearing of such resplendent garments when performing Temple service. Splendor – also the Priest should inspire awe among the Israelites who are all considered his disciples.”
A third, complementary, understanding can be offered. The glory and splendor is the glory and splendor of the Jewish people.
The priests represent the Jewish people at the Temple. The High Priest carries the names of the different tribes in his garments. The majestic appearance of the priests reflects on the stature of the nation.
When one represents others be it diplomatically, in business or even in sports, we expect them to conduct themselves respectfully. That respectability is expressed in general conduct, speech as well as dress. Proper dress often sets the tone for a meaningful first impression and attracts the attention of others. Our clothing say something about whom we are.
So too, the priests who stands before God is expected to represent us as “a kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (Shemot 19/6).
For comments: moshaber@gmail.com
