It is interesting to note that the Torah places emphasis upon the Kohen Gadol’s crown. The Kohen Gadol had neither sovereignty nor power over Bnei Yisrael. His mission in life was to be Bnei Yisrael’s “agent” in the Bais Hamikdash by offering the korbanos and to be Bnei Yisrael’s preeminent teacher and spiritual mentor. It is, therefore, enigmatic that the Torah stresses his crown. In contrast, the Melech Yisrael, Jewish king, who was charged with ruling the people and did have jurisdiction over them, is not portrayed as having a crown. The only demand placed upon the king was that he write a sefer Torah to be read by him all the days of his life. Why is there such a discrepancy between the roles of the Kohen Gadol and the king?
Horav Zalmen Sorotzkin z.l. derives from this contrast that the true bearer of the crown of Am Yisrael has been the spiritual leader, the Kohen Gadol. His mission in life was the paramount one, for he effected Klal Yisrael’s spiritual sustenance. The king earned his “crown” by seeking Torah from the lips of the Kohen Gadol. Through this relationship his monarchy and dynasty were granted longevity.
