The Gemara on amud aleph discusses the function of the Tzitz, the gold headplate worn by the Cohen Gadol. Let us focus on this unusual artifact and how the Ishbitzer (Mei HaShiloach II, Shemos, Tetzaveh 9) interprets its position in the verse and on the body.  The verses in Shemos (28:42-46) juxtapose the description of the Tzitz’s form and function to the Cohen’s pants.  The Tzitz represents the highest part of the Cohen Godol’s uniform.  It is on the head, the top of the body, made of gold and had G-d’s inscribed on it.  The pants are “in order to cover his nakedness, as described by the verse.  

This proximity of these objects carries an important message. As holy as a person may feel himself to be, he cannot be too holy as to ignore the existence of his sexual nature. Sexuality is a powerful force and can cause people to become destructive, but also productive, in the most literal sense.  The nakedness must be covered, in other words, sexuality’s force cannot be underestimate and precautions are important even at the most spiritual moments and settings.  

 

Translations Courtesy of Sefaria, except when, sometimes, I disagree with the translation cool

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