Topical Encyclopedia
AaronAaron, the brother of Moses and Miriam, is a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, serving as the first high priest of the Israelites. He was born into the tribe of Levi, the son of Amram and Jochebed (
Exodus 6:20). Aaron played a crucial role in the Exodus narrative, acting as Moses' spokesperson due to Moses' self-professed lack of eloquence (
Exodus 4:10-16).
Aaron's leadership is evident in several key events. He was instrumental in confronting Pharaoh alongside Moses, performing signs and wonders to persuade Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage (
Exodus 7:1-2). Aaron's rod famously turned into a serpent and later budded to confirm his divine appointment (
Exodus 7:10;
Numbers 17:8).
As the high priest, Aaron was responsible for the religious leadership of the Israelites, overseeing sacrifices and rituals as outlined in the Mosaic Law. He wore the sacred garments, including the ephod and breastplate, and entered the Holy of Holies on the Day of Atonement to make atonement for the people (
Exodus 28:1-43;
Leviticus 16:1-34).
Despite his significant role, Aaron also faced challenges and failures. Notably, he succumbed to the people's demands and crafted the golden calf while Moses was on Mount Sinai, an act that led to severe consequences (
Exodus 32:1-6). Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, were struck down for offering unauthorized fire before the Lord, highlighting the seriousness of his priestly duties (
Leviticus 10:1-2).
Aaron's death is recorded in
Numbers 20:22-29, where he ascended Mount Hor with Moses and his son Eleazar. There, Aaron was stripped of his priestly garments, which were passed to Eleazar, and he died on the mountain.
HurHur is a lesser-known figure in the Bible, but he plays a significant role in supporting Moses during a critical moment in Israel's journey. Hur is first mentioned in
Exodus 17:10-12, during the battle against the Amalekites. As Joshua led the Israelites in battle, Moses stood on a hill with the staff of God. When Moses' hands grew weary, Hur, along with Aaron, supported his hands, ensuring the Israelites' victory: "So Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his army with the sword" (
Exodus 17:13).
Hur is also mentioned in
Exodus 24:14, where Moses, before ascending Mount Sinai, instructed the elders of Israel, "Wait here for us until we return to you. Aaron and Hur are with you; whoever has a dispute can go to them" . This indicates that Hur held a position of authority and trust among the Israelites.
Jewish tradition and some biblical scholars suggest that Hur may have been from the tribe of Judah and possibly the husband of Miriam, Moses' sister, although the Bible does not explicitly confirm this relationship. His lineage is further noted in
1 Chronicles 2:19-20, where he is identified as the grandfather of Bezalel, the chief artisan of the Tabernacle.
Hur's contributions, though not extensively detailed, highlight his role as a supportive leader and a figure of stability during pivotal moments in Israel's history.
