A Kohen must not enter the Temple with long hair
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This Mitzvah's Summary
It is forbidden for a kohen to enter the Mikdash with overgrown, unkempt hair.
This mitzvah forbids kohanim from performing service or entering the Mikdash with long, uncut, or unkempt hair. The requirement to maintain a neat and dignified appearance reflects the reverence and discipline expected in Hashem’s house.
Rambam explains that just as a person would not appear before a king disheveled, so too the kohanim must approach Hashem with dignity and order. The Sefer HaChinuch emphasizes that the prohibition prevents disrespect to the Temple and ensures the kohanim remain mindful of their sacred role.
The command parallels other requirements for priestly decorum, such as wearing the garments properly and refraining from intoxication. Together, these rules create a framework of external respect that fosters inner awe. Neglecting appearance suggests carelessness, which undermines the sanctity of the Divine service.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
- Rambam (Hilchot Bi’at HaMikdash 1:7–8): Rules that long, unkempt hair invalidates a kohen’s service in the Mikdash.
- Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 153): Teaches that proper grooming honors Hashem and prevents a casual attitude toward the Mikdash.
- Rashi (Lev. 10:6): Notes that the Torah prohibits kohanim from appearing disheveled in the Temple as a sign of reverence.
- Talmud (Sanhedrin 22b): States that kohanim must trim their hair regularly before serving, just as one would prepare to meet royalty.
- Ramban: Adds that these external requirements preserve awe in the eyes of the people, who looked to the kohanim as representatives of holiness.
Commentaries
Applying this Mitzvah Today
Notes on this Mitzvah's Fundamentals
Holiness – קְדֻשָּׁה
- Rambam (Hilchot Bi’at HaMikdash 1:7) teaches that holiness requires external order. By prohibiting unkempt hair, the Torah emphasizes that sanctity must be reflected outwardly as well as inwardly, ensuring every detail of the Mikdash radiates holiness.
Priests – כֹּהֲנִים
- Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 153) explains that kohanim must maintain their appearance because they represent Israel before Hashem. Their dignity and orderliness affirm their special role as servants of the Almighty.
Temple – בֵּית הַמִּקְדָּשׁ
- Talmud (Sanhedrin 22b) compares kohanim’s grooming before service to appearing before a human king. This reflects the principle that the Mikdash, as Hashem’s house, demands utmost respect.
Reverence – יִרְאַת שָׁמַיִם
- Rashi (Lev. 10:6) comments that disheveled hair symbolizes carelessness. The prohibition thus fosters awe and discipline, ensuring that kohanim enter the Mikdash with full awareness of Hashem’s presence.
Community – קְהִלָּה
- Ramban highlights that Israel looked to kohanim as examples of holiness. Their neat, dignified appearance instilled respect for the Temple and inspired the community toward reverence.
Bein Adam L’Makom – בֵּין אָדָם לְמָקוֹם
- This mitzvah expresses Israel’s devotion to Hashem by ensuring His servants approach Him with care and preparation, reflecting respect for their sacred duties.
