שמות, פרק מ׳, פסוק י״ב

Once the Tabernacle itself is dedicated, the focus naturally shifts to preparing the people who will serve within it. The process of dedicating Aaron and his sons involves three distinct stages, with the first stage applying equally to all priests, regardless of their individual rank [קאסוטו]. Moses is instructed to bring them to the entrance of the Tent of Meeting, where they are to undergo a process of washing [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

An important distinction exists between this initial washing and the regular washing of hands and feet that the priests will perform during their daily duties. The standard washing is considered a holy service in its own right. However, at this early stage, Aaron and his sons have not yet put on their priestly garments, nor have they stepped into their official roles. Consequently, this initial washing is not an act of ritual sanctification, but rather a simple physical cleansing of the body. The official spiritual sanctification of the priests will only take place later, once they are fully dressed in their designated garments [נתינה לגר].