שמות, פרק כ״ט, פסוק ה׳

Preparing the High Priest for his service in the Tabernacle is a precise, multi-layered process carrying deep spiritual meaning. The sequence of putting on the priestly garments highlights themes of modesty, atonement, and holiness. A close look at the required clothing reveals that two main items are missing from this initial step: the pants and the sash. The primary approach among commentators is that the pants are intentionally left out for reasons of modesty. While Moses dressed Aaron in the rest of the garments, the priests put on their pants by themselves [רלב״ג, רש״ר הירש, ברכת אשר]. The sash is also absent here, saved for a later step so that the tying of Aaron's sash could be grouped together with the tying of his sons' sashes, as well as for other interpretive reasons [העמק דבר, מלבי״ם, רש״ר הירש].

The dressing process follows a specific order. It begins with the tunic, followed by the robe of the ephod. Over the robe, the ephod itself is tied [ביאור שטיינזלץ], and the breastplate is placed on top. Even though the breastplate appears to be a piece of jewelry, it is classified as a garment because it covers the area of the heart [אבן עזרא]. The act of tying the ephod involves decorating, adjusting, and securing the belt and apron firmly around Aaron's body [רש״י, ביאור יש״ר, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Beyond the physical act of dressing, the timing of the process holds great significance. Normally, a priest performing his duties without his proper garments makes the service invalid and incurs a severe penalty. Yet, during the seven days of the Tabernacle's dedication, Moses performed the service without wearing priestly garments. Aaron was required to wear his official clothing while Moses worked, allowing the holiness of the service to transfer to him and his garments. This dedication process lasted for seven days to serve as an atonement for Aaron's role in the sin of the Golden Calf. The impurity caused by idolatry is compared to other severe forms of ritual impurity, requiring a full seven-day period of purification [שפתי כהן].