Daf Yomi, Marriage Counseling, Psychotherapy, Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, Torah and Psychology
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph discusses the special requirement of the vestments worn by the Kohen Godol on Yom Kippur. The verse (Vayikra 16:23) states: “And he shall take off the linen garments, which he wore when he went into the Sanctuary, and shall leave them there.” Some understand this as a requirement that the garments may never be used again for any service, while another opinion holds they may not be used for another Yom Kippur. Regardless, there is an emphasis on signifying that these garments had one main function and now, having completed it, are set aside. What is the deeper meaning of this? What is being left behind after the conclusion of the atonement service?
Ben Porat Yosef (Derashos Shabbos Shuva 1) and Toldos Yaakov Yosef (Balak) explain: One should not be complacent with his accomplishments from the year but be ready to start fresh on a new level. Clothes indicate status and rank, and we also have our spiritual clothing, woven by our deeds. The vestments, which cover and adorn the person, are representative of the mitzvos and spiritual accomplishments of the year. Whatever the successes were, we must be ready to start again and expand from our original level. This is the discarding of the garments that are not to be used again. Every year is a cycle of many mitzvos and routines, but they are to be taken on in a new way—building on the past but not merely repeating it.
One final thought. Another way to read this ritual is that it is the discarding of past sins, attitudes, and behaviors that have clung to us. It is a form of tashlich, leaving the husks behind and entering a new phase.
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Translations Courtesy of Sefaria, except when, sometimes, I disagree with the translation
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Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, LCSW-R, LMFT, DHL is a psychotherapist who works with high conflict couples and families. He can be reached via email at simchafeuerman@gmail.com