Bible Study: Aaron, Son of Amram and First High Priest
Introduction:
Aaron, the elder brother of Moses, holds a significant place in the Old Testament narrative. He transitioned from a simple Levite to the first High Priest of Israel, playing a vital role in the Exodus and the establishment of Israel's worship. However, his story is also marked by human fallibility, highlighting the complexities of leadership and the importance of obedience.
1. General References & Context:
• Exodus 4:14: God appoints Aaron as Moses' spokesman, acknowledging his eloquence. "Is not Aaron the Levite your brother? I know that he can speak well." This sets the stage for Aaron's crucial role in communicating God's message to Pharaoh.
• Exodus 5:20, 6:20, 7:1,7,12, 12:1: These passages detail Aaron's involvement in the confrontations with Pharaoh, where he acted as Moses' mouthpiece, performing signs and wonders. These verses establish the foundation of his participation within the Exodus narrative.
• Exodus 16:34, 17:12, 19:24, 24:14: These verses highlight Aaron's continued support of Moses, including his assistance in upholding Moses' hands during the battle against the Amalekites (Exodus 17:12) and his role as a leader during Moses' ascent to Mount Sinai.
• Exodus 28:12, 30:10: These verses establish Aaron's high priestly role, detailing the sacred garments and rituals associated with his office.
• Exodus 32:2, Leviticus 10:6, Numbers 12:1, 16:11, 17:3: These passages detail Aaron's failures and challenges, most notably his involvement in the golden calf incident (Exodus 32) and the rebellion against Moses' leadership (Numbers 12 and 16). They showcase the human frailty even within a divinely appointed leader.
• Numbers 20:25, 28: These verses recount Aaron's death on Mount Hor, marking the end of his earthly ministry and the transfer of his priestly garments to his son, Eleazar.
2. Key Facts and Analysis:
• Moses' Spokesman (Exodus 7:1):
◦ God's choice of Aaron highlights the importance of teamwork and the use of individual gifts for His purpose.
◦ It also illustrates the challenges of leadership, as Moses struggled with his own speech impediment.
◦ Aaron's role as a communicator underscores the importance of clear and faithful transmission of God's word.
• Upholding Moses' Hands (Exodus 17:12):
◦ This act symbolizes the power of unity and support in times of struggle.
◦ It demonstrates the importance of teamwork and the need for mutual support within the community of faith.
◦ This action is a clear example of how Aarons support was vital to Moses.
• High Priest (Exodus 28:1):
◦ Aaron's consecration as High Priest established the Levitical priesthood and the system of sacrificial worship.
◦ This role emphasized the importance of mediation between God and humanity.
◦ The high priest had a very special and important role.
• The Golden Calf (Exodus 32:2-4):
◦ This incident represents a significant failure of leadership and a lapse in faith.
◦ It highlights the dangers of succumbing to pressure and the consequences of idolatry.
◦ This is a strong warning about the dangers of straying from God.
• Excluded from the Promised Land (Numbers 20:12):
◦ Aaron's exclusion, along with Moses, underscores the seriousness of disobedience and the consequences of failing to honor God's holiness.
◦ It serves as a reminder that even leaders are accountable for their actions.
◦ This shows that even though Aaron was a great man, he was not above God's law.
• Death on Mount Hor (Numbers 20:28):
◦ Aaron's death marked the end of an era and the transition of priestly leadership.
◦ It emphasizes the mortality of all humans, even those chosen for special service.
◦ This is a reminder of the fleeting nature of life.
See also: Nm 26:59, Nm 27:13, Nm 33:38, Dt 10:6, Dt 32:50, 1Ch 6:3, 1Ch 6:49, 1Ch 23:13, 2Ch
13:10, Ed 7:5, Ps 77:20, Ps 99:6, Ps 105:26, Ps 106:16, Ps 133:2, Mic 6:4, Luke 1:5, Acts 7:40, Heb 5:4
Lessons and Applications:
• The Importance of Support: Aaron's role as Moses' spokesman and his support during the battle against the Amalekites illustrates the importance of mutual support and teamwork within the body of Christ.
• The Dangers of Idolatry: The golden calf incident serves as a stark warning against the dangers of idolatry and the need to remain faithful to God.
• Accountability of Leadership: Aaron's failures demonstrate that even leaders are accountable for their actions and that obedience to God is paramount.
• The Grace of God: Despite Aaron's failings, God continued to use him and honor his priestly office. This highlights the grace and mercy of God.
• The Importance of the Priesthood: Aaron's establishment as the first high priest is a important part of the old testament, and helps us to understand the need for Jesus Christ, our high priest.
Conclusion:
Aaron's life is a complex tapestry of faith, leadership, and human fallibility. His story serves as a reminder that even those chosen by God are not immune to temptation and error. However, it also highlights the grace and mercy of God, who continued to use Aaron despite his shortcomings. By studying Aaron's life, we can learn valuable lessons about faith, leadership, and the importance of obedience.
