While the Kohein Gadol was busy doing the service in the Kodesh Hakedashim, all of the Jewish people waited anxiously in the courtyard. They knew that his work was fraught with danger. Only a person of the highest spiritual level would survive being so close to the Shechina (Divine Presence). It happened many times that a Kohein Gadol would enter the Kodesh Hakedashim on Yom Kippur and never come out. Many simply could not withstand such an intense spiritual experience!
Because of the great risk involved, a sturdy chain would be tied around the Kohein Gadol's foot before he went into the Kodesh Hakedashim. That way, if he didn't survive, he could be pulled back out by the chain. (Remember, no one else was ever allowed to enter the Kodesh Hakedashim for any reason!)
Tension filled the air while the Kohein Gadol did his work. All of the Jews wondered, would HaShem be pleased with his service? Would he be successful? Would he survive? Would the Jews be forgiven for the sins of the past year?
Finally, at the end of the day, if they saw the Kohein Gadol emerge peacefully from the Kodesh Hakedashim, they breathed a big sigh of relief. He had done it! His service was accepted, and HaShem had forgiven the Jews and wiped the slate clean for the new year. They were all so thankful and happy that they all rushed up to him, thanked him, and kissed his hands!
The Kohein Gadol then went home to celebrate his success with his family and friends. They all sat down to a festive meal, grateful for HaShem's kindness and forgiveness.
