Only the High Priest was allowed to enter the Holy of Holies on one day a year, on the Day of Atonement, which is in the autumn of each year. When entering the Holy of Holies, the High Priest did not wear the colorful golden garments, but only the white linen garments. As the High Priest entered this most sacred room, he would first burn incense before the ark, filling the room with smoke. He then exited and then reentered the Holy of Holies with blood from the sacrifice, which he sprinkled on the Ark of the Covenant seven times. As Israel was not allowed to enter the Holy of Holies, the High Priest represented all of Israel, making atonement first for his own sins and then for the sins of Israel, through the blood of the sacrifice.