God chose the high priest for a special role and they anointed him. The Hebrew word for "anoint" is mashiakh. It means "set apart by the ritual of anointing." In 1 Samuel 1:1—2 Kings 25:30, anointing usually refers to Israel's king (see 1 Samuel 24:6; 2 Samuel 1:14; 19:21).
They would anoint all priests (Exodus 40:13–15). Yet, here the term probably refers to the high priest because they specially anointed him for service in the tabernacle (Leviticus 6:20; 8:12). The high priest acted as a mediator or intercessor for all of Israel, including other priests. His sin would bring guilt on the entire community (see “Community Identity” Theme Note).
Guilt in this sense comes from disobeying God’s will. It is not only a feeling in the mind but a real offense against God (see study note on Leviticus 5:17–19).