The high priest cannot defend himself or his people from Satan's accusations. He does not claim that Israel is free from fault. In filthy garments, symbolizing the sins of the people, which he bears as their representative, he stands before the Angel, confessing their guilt, yet pointing to their 584 repentance and humiliation, and relying upon the mercy of a sin-pardoning Redeemer. In faith he claims the promises of God.

Ypperstepræsten kan hverken forsvare sig selv eller folket over for Satans anklager. Han påstår ikke, at Israel er fejlfri. Han står foran engelen i snavsede klæder, der symboliserer folkets synder, som han bærer som deres repræsentant. Han bekender deres synd, men henviser samtidig til deres anger og ydmyghed og stoler på en tilgivende frelsers nåde. Han tilegner sig Guds løfter i tro.