The Silence of Aaron
Leviticus 10:3
Then Moses said to Aaron, This is it that the LORD spoke, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come near me…


An ancient philosopher has said, "Light sorrows speak; great sorrows are silent." The experience of the human heart, and of this life, where affliction has so many degrees and arrays itself in so many different shades, justifies this observation. The sacred poets of Israel, in this thought, had anticipated pagan wisdom (see Isaiah 47:5; Lamentations 2:12, 13).

1. The impressions and the conduct of Aaron cannot be usefully estimated without a knowledge of the event.

2. It is a test of humility to be silent in the bosom of an irreparable loss, of a profound affliction.

3. In the mute sorrow of Aaron, there is more than this wise humility; we must see there also acquiescence.

4. Lastly, it is just to recognise in the conduct of Aaron lowly and firm resignation.

(A, Coquerel.)



Parallel Verses
KJV: Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace.

WEB: Then Moses said to Aaron, "This is what Yahweh spoke of, saying, 'I will show myself holy to those who come near me, and before all the people I will be glorified.'" Aaron held his peace.




The Broken Heart is Like a Broken Harp
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