Have you ever noticed how much clothing is focused on in the Torah? Adam and Eve made for themselves belts made out of fig leaves. Yakov wore Eisav’s clothes when he was asking his father, Yitzchak for a blessing. Yosef's brothers were jealous of him for his special multicolored coat that his father had made for him. This week’s parsha, Parashat Tetzaveh elaborates with a detailed description of the “Bigdei Kehuna”, the sacred garments worn by the High Priest, which were created to be seen and to impress the eye. 

But this raises an important question: does this not contradict some of the values of Judaism? We often think about how our clothing can influence the way others see us. On the other hand, as Rabbi Sacks says, Judaism is a religion of the ear more than the eye and it highlights hearing and understanding more than seeing. The key word in Judaism is ‘Shema’, which means to hear, listen, understand, and obey. Jewish spirituality emphasizes listening over seeing, which is why we cover our eyes when reciting, Shema Yisrael’, the first words of the key prayer recited twice a day. By shutting out visual distractions, we focus on the meaning of the words. Isn’t it exceptionally unusual that the Torah should now concern itself in a positive way with clothing, garments, and vestments?

Rabbi Sacks explains that on one hand Judaism often views clothing as a symbol of surface and appearance rather than inner truth and teaches that outside appearances can be deceiving and misleading. On the other hand clothing is important because putting effort into what we wear can bring us spiritually closer to the Hashem. 

We see how clothing plays a significant role in sacred contexts as in the construction of the Mishkan and the Priestly garments. These vestments are designed not just for aesthetic appeal but to elevate the spiritual experience and connect the community to the divine presence. The importance of clothing in Judaism lies in its ability to reflect dignity, purpose, and reverence in worship. Without this significance, clothing would merely be a practical necessity, lacking the profound connection it fosters between individuals and their faith. This duality highlights how clothing can both mislead and inspire, reminding us that while appearances matter, true value lies in the intentions and meanings behind what we wear. 

Clothing holds a significant importance in Judaism, especially in how we present ourselves and how others perceive us. While clothes can enhance appearance, they can also be deceiving, affecting people's opinions based on surface value rather than inner truth. Ultimately, while clothing matters in how we are seen, it is our inner character that truly defines us in the eyes of G-d.

Thank you and Shabbat Shalom

Hillel, Grade 10