Commentators differ on the symbolism of these clothes. Wenham writes, Among his fellow men his dignity as the great mediator between man and God is unsurpassed, and his splendid clothes draw attention to the glory of his office. But in the presence of God even the high priest is stripped of all honour: he becomes simply the servant of the King of kings, whose true status is portrayed in the simplicity of his dress.
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4 He shall put on the holy linen coat and shall have the linen undergarment on his body, and he shall tie the linen sash around his waist, and wear the linen turban; these are the holy garments. He shall bathe his body in water and then put them on.