The role of the High Priest in ancient Israel was a position of profound spiritual and religious significance, serving as the primary mediator between God and His people. This office was established by divine command and was integral to the religious life of the Israelites, as outlined in the Old Testament.

Divine Appointment and Ancestry

The High Priest was appointed from the tribe of Levi, specifically from the descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses. This lineage was divinely chosen, as recorded in Exodus 28:1 : "And bring near to you your brother Aaron and his sons with him from among the Israelites to serve Me as priests—Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar." The hereditary nature of the office underscored the continuity and sanctity of the priestly duties.

Sacrificial Duties and Atonement

Central to the High Priest's role was the responsibility for conducting sacrifices, particularly on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). Leviticus 16 details the intricate rituals performed by the High Priest to atone for the sins of the nation. On this solemn day, the High Priest entered the Holy of Holies, the innermost sanctuary of the Tabernacle (and later the Temple), to offer blood sacrifices. Leviticus 16:15-16 states: "Then he shall slaughter the goat for the sin offering for the people and take its blood behind the veil. He is to do with this blood as he did with the bull’s blood: He shall sprinkle it against the mercy seat and in front of it. In this way he will make atonement for the Most Holy Place because of the impurities and rebellious acts of the Israelites, whatever their sins may have been."

Intercessory Role

The High Priest also served as an intercessor, representing the people before God. This role is exemplified in the wearing of the ephod, which included the breastplate containing the Urim and Thummim, used for divine decision-making. Exodus 28:30 describes this: "Put the Urim and the Thummim into the breastpiece of judgment, so that they will also be over Aaron’s heart whenever he enters the presence of the LORD. Thus Aaron will always bear the judgment of the Israelites over his heart before the LORD."

Symbol of Holiness and Purity

The High Priest was a symbol of holiness and purity, required to adhere to strict laws of conduct and ritual purity. His garments, as described in Exodus 28, were elaborate and symbolic, including the turban with the inscription "Holy to the LORD" (Exodus 28:36). These garments set him apart, signifying his unique role in maintaining the sanctity of the worship practices.

Foreshadowing of Christ

In Christian theology, the High Priest is seen as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, the ultimate High Priest. The Epistle to the Hebrews elaborates on this typology, emphasizing that Christ's priesthood surpasses the Aaronic priesthood. Hebrews 4:14-15 states: "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin."

Conclusion

The High Priest's unique role was foundational to the religious life of Israel, serving as a mediator, intercessor, and symbol of holiness. This office not only fulfilled essential functions in the Old Covenant but also pointed forward to the New Covenant, where Jesus Christ fulfills and transcends the role of the High Priest.