High priest was the head of the Jewish priesthood in later Biblical times. He represented the Jewish people before God. His duties were to take care of the Temple and sanctuary and all its services. He was also the chief of the Sanhedrin, the highest governing council of the Jews. When he became high priest, he was anointed with holy oil as a symbol of authority.
There were special rules for a high priest’s conduct (Leviticus 21). For example, he was permitted to marry only a virgin of Israel. His official costume included a blue robe, partly covered with an embroidered garment called an ephod. On his head he wore a linen turban called a miter. He had a golden breastplate set with 12 precious stones that bore the names of the 12 tribes of Israel. Only the high priest was permitted to enter the Holy of Holies (see Tabernacle ). He then wore a white linen robe.
Aaron, the brother of Moses, is believed to have been the first high priest of Israel (see Aaron ). At first, a high priest served for life. Later, Herod and the Romans appointed and dismissed high priests as they wished.
