share torah logo

Exodus 28:35 - Bells announce Kohen's sacred service

Exodus 28:35 - שמות 28:35

Hebrew Text

וְהָיָה עַל־אַהֲרֹן לְשָׁרֵת וְנִשְׁמַע קוֹלוֹ בְּבֹאוֹ אֶל־הַקֹּדֶשׁ לִפְנֵי יְהוָה וּבְצֵאתוֹ וְלֹא יָמוּת׃

English Translation

And it shall be upon Aharon when he comes to minister: and its sound shall be heard when he goes in to the holy place before the Lord, and when he comes out, that he die not.

Transliteration

Vehayah al-Aharon lesharet venishma kolo bevoo el-hakodesh lifnei Adonai uvtzeto velo yamut.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְהָיָ֥ה עַֽל־אַהֲרֹ֖ן לְשָׁרֵ֑ת וְנִשְׁמַ֣ע ק֠וֹל֠וֹ בְּבֹא֨וֹ אֶל־הַקֹּ֜דֶשׁ לִפְנֵ֧י יְהֹוָ֛ה וּבְצֵאת֖וֹ וְלֹ֥א יָמֽוּת׃ <span class="mam-spi-samekh">{ס}</span>        
וְהָיָ֥ה עַֽל־אַהֲרֹ֖ן לְשָׁרֵ֑ת וְנִשְׁמַ֣ע ק֠וֹל֠וֹ בְּבֹא֨וֹ אֶל־הַקֹּ֜דֶשׁ לִפְנֵ֧י יְהֹוָ֛ה וּבְצֵאת֖וֹ וְלֹ֥א יָמֽוּת׃ {ס}        

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Shemot 28:35) describes the me'il (robe) of the Kohen Gadol (High Priest), specifically the golden bells (pa'amonim) attached to its hem. The Torah emphasizes that the sound of these bells must be heard when Aharon enters and exits the Kodesh (Holy Place), lest he die. This underscores the sanctity and danger associated with entering the inner sanctum of the Mishkan (Tabernacle).

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Shemot 28:35) explains that the bells served as an announcement of the Kohen Gadol's entry into the Kodesh, ensuring that he did not enter suddenly or unannounced before Hashem. The phrase "v'nishma kolo" ("its sound shall be heard") implies that the bells must ring continuously as he moves, fulfilling their purpose as a protective measure.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Klei HaMikdash (9:7), the Rambam (Maimonides) elaborates that the bells were not merely decorative but a mitzvah min haTorah (Torah commandment) to ensure the Kohen Gadol's safety. Their sound served as a reminder of the reverence due to the sacred space, preventing any irreverent or abrupt entry that could lead to divine punishment.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Zevachim 88b) connects the bells to the concept of hoda'ah (acknowledgment), teaching that the Kohen Gadol must approach Hashem with humility and awareness of his role.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Tetzaveh 10) suggests that the bells atoned for the sin of lashon hara (evil speech), as sound—when used properly—can rectify improper speech.

Symbolism of the Bells

The pa'amonim symbolize the need for mindfulness in divine service. Just as their sound precedes and follows the Kohen Gadol, a Jew's actions should be accompanied by awareness of Hashem's presence. The Sforno (Shemot 28:35) adds that the bells represent the continuous connection between the Kohen Gadol and the divine, ensuring his service is always aligned with holiness.

Practical Halachic Implications

From a halachic standpoint, the verse teaches that proper preparation and reverence are essential when approaching sacred duties. The Mishnah (Yoma 1:5) details how the Kohen Gadol would undergo purification and meditation before Yom Kippur, reflecting the principle that one must not enter the Kodesh without proper intent and caution.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Yoma 44b
The verse is discussed in the context of the High Priest's service on Yom Kippur, particularly regarding the bells on his robe and their significance in ensuring his safety when entering and exiting the Holy of Holies.
📖 Zevachim 19b
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the proper attire and procedures for the priests during their service in the Temple, emphasizing the importance of the bells on Aharon's robe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the significance of the bells on Aharon's robe in Exodus 28:35?
A: The bells on Aharon's robe served as an audible signal when he entered and exited the Holy of Holies (Kodesh HaKodashim). According to Rashi, this was to ensure that his service was performed with proper reverence and awareness, preventing any sudden or improper entry that could lead to death, as the Holy of Holies was a place of immense sanctity.
Q: Why was it important for Aharon's voice to be heard when he entered the Holy of Holies?
A: The sound of the bells announced Aharon's presence before Hashem, showing respect and caution when entering the sacred space. The Talmud (Yoma 44a) explains that this prevented any sudden or silent entry, which could be seen as disrespectful or presumptuous. The verse emphasizes that this protocol was necessary 'that he die not,' highlighting the seriousness of approaching the Divine Presence.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Exodus 28:35 about approaching holiness?
A: This verse teaches us the importance of mindfulness and reverence when engaging with holiness. Just as Aharon had to prepare and announce his presence before entering the Holy of Holies, we too should approach sacred moments—such as prayer or Torah study—with awareness and respect. The Rambam (Hilchot Tefillah 4:16) emphasizes the need for proper focus and preparation when standing before Hashem.
Q: How does the concept of 'not dying' in this verse apply to us today?
A: While we no longer have the Temple service, the principle remains relevant: approaching holiness without proper preparation can have spiritual consequences. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 38:8) compares this to entering a king's presence without permission. Today, this reminds us to approach mitzvot and sacred spaces with the right mindset, ensuring we connect meaningfully with Hashem.
Q: What was the purpose of the bells when Aharon exited the Holy of Holies?
A: Just as the bells sounded when Aharon entered, they also rang when he left, symbolizing that his service was complete and he had exited safely. Rashi notes that this demonstrated that his presence was accepted by Hashem, and he emerged unharmed. This reinforced the idea that proper conduct in sacred matters leads to Divine favor and protection.