Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of the holy garments for Aharon?
A: The holy garments (bigdei kodesh) were special priestly clothing worn by Aharon and his descendants, the Kohanim (priests), when serving in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later in the Beit HaMikdash (Temple). According to Rashi and the Talmud (Zevachim 17b), these garments were essential for the priestly service and brought atonement for different sins. Each garment had deep spiritual meaning, representing dignity, honor, and closeness to Hashem.
Q: Why was Aharon anointed with oil?
A: Aharon was anointed with special anointing oil (shemen hamishcha) to sanctify him for his role as Kohen Gadol (High Priest). The Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 1:7) explains that this anointing was a sign of his consecration and separation for holy service. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 37:2) teaches that this anointing symbolized wisdom and divine selection for leadership.
Q: What does it mean to 'sanctify' Aharon?
A: To 'sanctify' (קִדַּשְׁתָּ) Aharon means to set him apart exclusively for holy service to Hashem. The Talmud (Yoma 4b) explains that this sanctification involved rituals and offerings that elevated Aharon and his descendants to their priestly role. The Rambam (Hilchot Bi’at HaMikdash 9:1) states that this sanctification was necessary for performing the Temple service properly.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jews today?
A: Although the Temple is not standing today, the concept of sanctification and serving Hashem with dignity remains relevant. The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 99) teaches that the priestly garments remind us to approach holiness with proper reverence. Additionally, the Midrash (Tanchuma Tetzaveh 7) connects the priestly garments to the idea that all Jews are called to be a 'kingdom of priests' (Shemot 19:6) by living with holiness in daily life.
Q: Why were only Aharon and his descendants chosen as priests?
A: Hashem designated Aharon and his descendants as Kohanim due to Aharon’s righteousness and his role in leading the Jewish people. The Talmud (Zevachim 102a) explains that this was a divine decree, and the Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 4:12) states that the priesthood is an eternal covenant. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 3:1) also highlights Aharon’s qualities of peacemaking and love for others as reasons for his selection.
The Significance of the Priestly Garments
The verse (Shemot 28:41) commands Moshe to dress Aharon in the bigdei kodesh (holy garments), anoint him, sanctify him, and prepare him for the priesthood. Rashi explains that these garments were essential for the avodah (service) in the Mishkan, as they conferred dignity and honor upon the Kohen Gadol (High Priest). The Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 8:5) further elaborates that the garments were not merely ceremonial but had intrinsic holiness, and their absence invalidated the service.
The Process of Anointing and Sanctification
The verse mentions three steps: dressing Aharon in the garments, anointing him with oil, and sanctifying him. The Talmud (Keritot 5b) teaches that the anointing oil (shemen hamishchah) was a unique blend of spices and olive oil, symbolizing wisdom and divine favor. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 37:2) states that the anointing elevated Aharon to a higher spiritual status, setting him apart for sacred service.
The Purpose of the Priesthood
The phrase "וְכִהֵן לִי" ("that he may minister to Me") underscores the Kohen's role as an intermediary between Bnei Yisrael and Hashem. The Sforno explains that the Kohen’s service was not for personal glory but entirely dedicated to divine worship. The Kli Yakar adds that the garments themselves atoned for specific sins, such as the choshen (breastplate) atoning for errors in judgment, highlighting the Kohen’s role in maintaining spiritual rectitude.
Symbolism of the Garments
Eternal Lessons
The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 99) derives from this verse that honor and reverence are necessary for divine service. Just as the Kohen’s garments elevated his role, every Jew must approach mitzvot with dignity and sanctity. The Or HaChayim emphasizes that the anointing oil represents the divine spirit, teaching that true leadership requires both outward preparation and inner spiritual refinement.