What role did Moses and Aaron play in Leviticus 9:23? The Scene in Leviticus 9:23 “Moses and Aaron entered the Tent of Meeting. When they came out, they blessed the people, and the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people.” Two Leaders, One Unified Act • Moses and Aaron act together—neither is sidelined. • Moses, the covenant mediator (Exodus 34:27-28), and Aaron, the newly consecrated high priest (Leviticus 8), join hands in the first public exercise of priestly ministry. • Their joint entry underscores that the sacrificial system (Aaron) rests on the foundation of revealed law (Moses). Entering the Tent: Representing Israel Before God • Inside the Tent of Meeting they present the blood and portions of the offerings just sacrificed (Leviticus 9:8-21). • This entry pictures full obedience; the offerings are accepted because they are brought exactly as God commanded (Leviticus 9:6-7). • Typologically, Moses points to prophetic revelation, Aaron to priestly intercession—together prefiguring Christ who unites both offices (Hebrews 3:1; 4:14). Coming Out to Bless: Representing God Before Israel • They “blessed the people” (compare Numbers 6:22-27). • The blessing affirms forgiveness, fellowship, and favor now that atonement has been made. • Moses and Aaron become living conduits of God’s gracious word, mirroring the future priestly calling of Israel to bless the nations (Exodus 19:6). Result: Visible Glory • Immediately after the blessing, “the glory of the LORD appeared” (v. 23), confirmed by consuming fire (v. 24). • Obedient mediation leads to manifested presence—God publicly approves the sacrificial system and the leaders He appointed. Key Takeaways • Moses and Aaron jointly mediate: first entering to present the offerings, then exiting to convey God’s blessing. • Their coordinated roles highlight that true worship needs both revealed truth and priestly intercession. • The appearing glory validates their ministry and reassures the people that the way to God is open through divinely appointed mediators. |
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