Moshe is enjoined regarding the mitzvah of anointing Aharon and his sons prior to their induction into the priestly service. What reason is there for the whole congregation of Bnei Yisroel to assemble at the entrance to the Ohel Moed? What connection do they have to this mitzvah, and what purpose is served by it? As this mitzvah is directed to Moshe, why did he relate it to the Bnei Yisroel?
The Kohain Gadol’s influence over the people is proportional to the extent that they are unified and in agreement. When there is discord and strife among them, his spiritual influence cannot imbue them with his source of holiness. The Bnei Yisroel may be compared to a body with the Kohain Gadol being the leader and head. If the various organs are separated, then what purpose will the head serve? As Moshe was about to anoint the Kohanim, he first assembled all the people in front of them. This assemblage was the essential, reciprocal relationship required to maximize the Kohain Gadol’s influence over the people. Only through unity can the influence of holiness permeate all of Klal Yisroel.
