During the investure of the Leviim, the Torah commands them to shave their heads. The Recanti observes the disparity between the term used for the Levi –taharah, purity – and that used for the Kohen -kedushah, holiness. What is the significance of the distinction between the goal set for these two paradigmatic spiritual leaders? Horav Eli Munk, zl, explains that “purity,” the term used for the Levi, indicates a negative quality, the absence of contamination. On the other hand, kedushah, the term used for the Kohen, signifies a positive trait. When the Levi cut his hair short, he was symbolizing separating himself from the past in order to begin a life of unimpeded purity.
The Kohen, on the other hand, let his beard grow in order to demonstrate his willingness to extend his spiritual/moral virtue beyond the scope of his body. Not an integral part of the body, the hair represents the means by which the body extends to the outside world. The Kohen is enjoined to teach Klal Yisrael — and thereby leave his imprimatur of holiness upon those around him.
