The Man Makes the Clothes

In Parshas Titzaveh, Moshe is given divine guidance regarding the design of the Bigdei Kehuna, the priestly garments designated for Ahron and his sons. Hashem commands Moshe that the purpose of these garments was “Lichavod Ulisifares,” indicating their intended purpose of honor and glory.

As the Festival of Purim approaches, a significant teaching from the Talmud emerges. The Book of Esther describes King Achashveirosh hosting an extravagant feast to showcase his wealth, using the phrase “Tiferes Gidulaso,” which translates to the glory of his (Achashveirosh’s) greatness. The inclusion of the term "glory" implies that Achashveirosh donned the High Priest's garments during this event.

Whose Glory?

Rashi clarifies that these garments were specifically designed for the honor and glory of Ahron, as no other members of the Jewish People wore such clothing. Furthermore, the Sipurno interprets that the garments were intended to honor The Holy One, for whom the Temple service was conducted.

It can be posited that there is no conflict between Rashi and the Sipurno. Ahron and his descendants acknowledged the significant honor conferred upon them as representatives of the Nation, entrusted with sacred duties within the Holy Temple. This role necessitated their wearing "glorious and regal attire," appropriate for those who serve Hashem. The kohanim wore these garments to reflect their dignity and honor, manifesting glory and honor towards Hashem.

Ahron vs Achashveirosh

The contrast between Achashveirosh's self-serving pride in donning these garments and Ahron's selfless dedication during the Tabernacle service is clear. While both figures wore similar attire, their motivations and the consequences of their actions were fundamentally different.

How is it possible for two individuals to don identical garments yet embody such distinct personas? William Shakespeare posits in Hamlet that "apparel oft proclaims the man." Thus, what messages do these garments convey? The Bigdei Kehuna indeed signifies the "glory and honor" of their wearer. However, the key distinction lies in the character of the individuals themselves. Achashveirosh, characterized by his self-serving and insecure nature, wears these garments in vain pursuit of the "honor and glory" they represent. He focuses merely on the external component of his life. In contrast, Ahron, a devoted servant of Hashem, adorns himself with these garments, which instead reflect His "honor and glory." He strove to keep his internal self in line with his external self and be worthy of wearing the priestly garments.

Who Am I?

In examining these two biblical figures, it is imperative to pose the challenging inquiry: Who am I? Does my outward identity accurately represent my inner being? Achieving a life characterized by congruence is vital for an individual's overall sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. At times, the responses we uncover may not be pleasing. Nevertheless, even in such instances, we can harness that discomfort as a catalyst for transformation, guiding us toward the realization of the ideal life we aspire to lead.

Time continues its relentless progression; am I keeping pace? 

It is a fundamental aspect of human nature to pursue fulfillment and contentment. In our formative years, we are brimming with aspirations and goals. However, many individuals become trapped in the routine of everyday life, where days blend into one another and weeks pass in an unbroken cycle, resulting in a disconnection from their personal objectives and dreams. This raises the question: What methods can one adopt to disrupt this relentless passage of time and cultivate a more meaningful and enriching life experience?

Self-Reflection 

Engaging in self-reflection is a profoundly beneficial endeavor. A crucial aspect of realizing personal ambitions involves a deliberate analysis of one's inner thoughts and feelings. At our essence, we inherently know what aligns with our true selves and what revitalizes our spirit. It is vital to calm the mind and reconnect with that personal mission statement that was formulated during our early years.

You versus Yourself 

As you contemplate your past aspirations, ponder, “What obstacles prevent me from becoming the person I once imagined?” Are these obstacles tangible or merely illusory? The adage “perception is reality” holds validity, yet it does not imply that one is confined to that reality. By altering your perception, your reality frequently transforms as well. Challenge yourself to identify which perceptions contribute to the obstacles in your life, and work to change the perception of the obstacle. It is essential to recognize that, although we may lack control over the situations and circumstances that confront us, we possess the ability—and the responsibility—to manage our responses and interpretations of these experiences.

Have a wonderful Shabbos,

Binyomin Stolov