Aaron, an Extension Study of People in the Bible

Aaron, the brother of Moses and Miriam, played a pivotal role in the biblical narrative, particularly during the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt and their journey through the wilderness. Born to Amram and Jochebed, members of the tribe of Levi, Aaron was three years older than Moses. When God called Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Aaron served as his spokesperson due to Moses’ hesitation and lack of confidence in his speaking abilities. Aaron’s eloquence and ability to communicate effectively made him an ideal partner for Moses, and together they confronted Pharaoh, demanding the Israelites’ release.

As the Israelites wandered in the wilderness, Aaron was appointed as the first high priest of Israel, responsible for offering sacrifices, interceding with God, and leading the Israelites in worship. He wore special garments containing the names of the sons of Israel, symbolizing his role as a mediator between God and the people. Aaron performed various sacrifices and rituals, including the Day of Atonement, to atone for the people’s sins and maintain their relationship with God. His priesthood established the Levitical line, which played a crucial role in Israel’s worship and spiritual life.

Despite his important role, Aaron struggled with insecurity and compromise. In the incident of the golden calf, Aaron yielded to the people’s demands and created an idol, which led to God’s wrath and a plague among the Israelites. This event highlights Aaron’s weakness and lack of leadership, which sometimes led him to prioritize pleasing the people over following God’s instructions. Additionally, Aaron, along with Moses, disobeyed God’s instructions at Meribah, striking the rock instead of speaking to it, which resulted in both of them being barred from entering the Promised Land.

Aaron’s legacy extends beyond his lifetime, and his priesthood foreshadowed the ultimate high priest, Jesus Christ, who intercedes on behalf of humanity before God. The blessing given to Aaron, known as the Aaronic Blessing, is still used today: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace” (Numbers 6:24-26). This blessing has brought comfort and hope to countless individuals throughout history, and Aaron’s role in Israel’s worship and spiritual life continues to be studied and revered by people of faith around the world.

Through his life and experiences, Aaron serves as a complex and multifaceted example of human frail humanity. Despite his strengths and weaknesses, Aaron’s faithfulness to God and his role in Israel’s worship and spiritual life are a testament to the power of obedience and trust in the divine. As a high priest, Aaron pointed to the need for a mediator between God and humanity, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness and reconciliation to all people.