I love pomegranates!

Pomegranates are one of the seven indigenous fruits of the land of Israel mentioned in the Bible. It is interesting that they play a central role in the Temple.

Sewn onto the hem of the robe of the high priest were small pomegranate shaped tassels and bells.

What was the purpose of these bells and pomegranates?

The Bible tells us that its “sound shall be heard when he enters the Sanctuary before Hashem…”

On the holiest day of the year (Yom Kippur), the holiest person (the high priest) would enter the holiest space (the holy of holies). It was a powerful moment.

We can imagine that the people who gathered in the Temple that day would fall absolutely silent at that moment.

Suddenly they would hear the soft sound of the small bells and pomegranates as the kohein gadol (high priest) entered the holy of holies. It alerted them to what was about to happen. It was an awe-inspiring event.

There is a deep message here for all of us.

These bells and pomegranates served as a type of announcement as to what the high priest was about to do. It was not a surprise or a sudden movement.

Whenever you enter a room or any area that is someone’s personal or private space, you should alert them beforehand that you are about to enter.

Before you enter even your own bedroom where your spouse may be changing or simply wanting some privacy, you should knock before entering.

When you barge in on someone,  it’s as if you are saying “I am in charge, you belong to me, and you have no rights of your own.” When we respect others, that is precisely when we become worthy of respect.