Within the Old Testament, the priest’s clothing receives significant attention, both for its functional value as well as its symbolic meaning (Exodus 28:1–43; Leviticus 8:1–36). For example, Ezekiel 44:18 indicates that the reason for this was connected to the purity laws. The priestly garments symbolized holiness as the priest ministered in the sanctuary. When carrying out this task the priest was required to wear his full priestly attire. This included his white linen outer garment and his white linen undergarments. Holy garments, in other words, were to be worn in the work of the sanctuary.
10 And the priest shall put on his linen garment and put his linen undergarment on his body, and he shall take up the ashes to which the fire has reduced the burnt offering on the altar and put them beside the altar.