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Aaron, the brother of Moses, was the first high priest of Israel, and his sons were appointed to serve as priests alongside him. The sons of Aaron are significant figures in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of the Levitical priesthood and the religious practices of ancient Israel.

Names and Roles

Aaron had four sons: Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. These sons were consecrated as priests to serve in the tabernacle, assisting their father in the duties of the priesthood. The Book of Exodus details their consecration: "Then bring his sons and dress them in tunics. Anoint them just as you anointed their father, so that they may also serve Me as priests. Their anointing will qualify them for a permanent priesthood throughout their generations" (Exodus 40:14-15).

Nadab and Abihu

Nadab and Abihu, the two eldest sons, are known for their tragic end. InLeviticus 10, they offered "unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to His command" (Leviticus 10:1). As a result, fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died before the LORD. This incident underscored the holiness required in the service of God and the severe consequences of disobedience.

Eleazar and Ithamar

After the death of Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar continued to serve as priests. Eleazar, the third son, eventually succeeded Aaron as high priest.Numbers 20:25-28 describes the transfer of the high priestly garments from Aaron to Eleazar on Mount Hor, signifying the continuation of the priestly line: "Take Aaron and his son Eleazar and bring them up Mount Hor. Remove Aaron’s garments and put them on his son Eleazar. Aaron will be gathered to his people and will die there" (Numbers 20:25-26).

Ithamar, the youngest son, also played a significant role in the priesthood. He was responsible for overseeing the work of the Levites in the tabernacle, as noted inExodus 38:21: "This is the inventory of the tabernacle, the tabernacle of the Testimony, as recorded at Moses’ command by the Levites under the direction of Ithamar son of Aaron the priest" (Exodus 38:21).

Legacy

The descendants of Eleazar and Ithamar continued to serve in the priesthood for generations. The priestly line of Eleazar is particularly noted for producing notable high priests, including Phinehas, who is commended for his zeal for the LORD inNumbers 25. The division of the priestly duties between the descendants of Eleazar and Ithamar is recorded in1 Chronicles 24, where David organizes the priests into divisions for their service in the temple.

The account of Aaron's sons highlights the importance of obedience and reverence in the worship of God, as well as the enduring legacy of the Levitical priesthood in the history of Israel.