Clothes make the man, goes the saying. This week’s portion describes the dress that Aaron and his sons must wear as they perform their sacred duties in the Tabernacle. The purpose of these clothes is “for dignity and adornment.” (Exodus 28:40) In other words, these vestments create a sense of seriousness both in the priests performing the sacrificial rights and the people watching them. We do much the same thing. Although we have become much more casual in how we dress, many of us still put on special clothes when we go to a cultural event, or a special party, or even to work. The right clothes set a mood and put us in the proper frame of mind for the task or event ahead. That is why many wear their nicest clothes on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Not to show off, but to show their intention and the importance of the moment. Lest you think this idea superficial, remember that Judaism believes that our actions – even our dress – can influence our inner character. So if we dress as if an event or a synagogue service is important, we will behave that way. If we dress as if we don’t care – we may be telling people how we really feel.

~Rabbi Dean

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