Aaron, the brother of Moses and Miriam, is introduced in Exodus 4:14 as a Levite whom God appoints to assist Moses in delivering the Israelites from Egypt. Born to Amram and Jochebed (Exodus 6:20), Aaron served as Moses’ spokesman because Moses felt inadequate in speech. God said, “He shall be your spokesman to the people… and you shall be to him as God” (Exodus 4:16).
Aaron played a significant role during the Exodus. He performed miracles alongside Moses, including stretching out his rod to initiate plagues (Exodus 7:19) and helping lead Israel out of bondage. Aaron became the first high priest of Israel and was consecrated with holy garments and anointing oil (Exodus 28–29). His sons were appointed to serve with him in the priesthood, establishing a lasting covenant with the tribe of Levi.
However, Aaron also faltered. While Moses was on Mount Sinai, Aaron yielded to the people’s demands and fashioned a golden calf for worship, saying, “This is your god, O Israel, that brought you out of the land of Egypt!” (Exodus 32:4). Though he attempted to appease the people, it was a grave sin, and God’s anger burned against Israel. Moses interceded, and Aaron was spared.
Aaron later joined Miriam in challenging Moses’ unique role, and the Lord responded by affirming Moses’ authority and striking Miriam with leprosy, though Aaron pleaded for her healing (Numbers 12).
When Korah and others rebelled against Moses and Aaron, God confirmed Aaron’s priesthood by causing his rod to bud, blossom, and produce almonds (Numbers 17:8). This miraculous sign settled the matter of divine selection.
Aaron died on Mount Hor due to his disobedience at Meribah, where he and Moses failed to sanctify the Lord before the people (Numbers 20:12, 28). His priestly garments were passed to his son Eleazar.
Aaron’s life was marked by divine calling, sacred service, human weakness, and God’s mercy. As high priest, he served as a mediator between God and Israel, foreshadowing the perfect priesthood of Jesus Christ, “a merciful and faithful High Priest” (Hebrews 2:17).
