Homilies on Leviticus, Homilia VI
Why the veil remains or is taken away§1
1The Apostle says the veil is taken away for those who turn to the Lord. The high priest’s garments are not bare history; they veil mysteries of Christ and the church.
Latin · §1
Apostolus dicit velamen auferri conversis ad Dominum. Indumenta pontificis non nudam historiam sed mysteria Christi et ecclesiae tegunt.
The linen tunic and the common man§2
2The linen tunic against the skin is inward chastity. The “common” man is sin’s slave; the new priest is clothed with Christ.
Latin · §2
Tunica linea ad cutem — castitas interior. Homo communis peccatis servus; sacerdos novus induitur Christo.
The ephod and breastpiece of judgment§3
3Ephod and breastpiece of judgment: the people’s burdens on the shoulders, their names on the heart. The high priest keeps the church in mind.
Latin · §3
Superhumerale et rationale iudicii — onera populi in umeris, nomina in corde. Pontifex memor ecclesiae.
Bells and pomegranates§4
4Bells and pomegranates on the hem — teaching’s sound and works’ fruit. Entering the holy place, let him be heard.
Latin · §4
Tintinnabula et mala granata in ora vestis — sonus doctrinae et fructus operum. Ingrediens sancta audiatur.
The gold plate — Holy to the Lord§5
5The gold plate on the forehead: Holy to the Lord. Consecrate the mind’s brow. Take every thought captive to obey Christ.
Latin · §5
Lamina aurea in fronte: Sanctum Domino. Cogitatio in fronte consecrata. Omnis captivitas in obsequium Christi.
Clothed for glory and beauty — Homilia VI CLOSEOUT§6
6Clothe the priests for glory and beauty. The soul’s glory is virtue; its beauty is ordered love. Homilia VI CLOSEOUT. Amen.
Latin · §6
Indue sacerdotes ad gloriam et decorem. Gloria animae virtus; decor ordo caritatis. Amen.