The high priest

The high priest in the Old Testament, or Cohen Gadol, was the Israelites« supreme religious leader. His office was hereditary, going back to Moses» brother Aaron of the Levite tribe. The high priest had to be physically "whole" and holy in his conduct. His role was to oversee the responsibilities of all subordinate priests.

The high priest wore specific vestments, such as the breastplate, ephod, robe, tunic of mail, tiara and scarf, in gold, azure blue, purple, scarlet and fine linen. 

The main function of the high priest was to make atonement for himself and the people of Israel on the holy day par excellence, the Day of Atonement (or Yom Kippur).