Introduction

Aaron, the brother of Moses, is a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible, particularly in the narrative of the Exodus. As a Levite, Aaron played a crucial role in the deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. His commission as a deliverer alongside Moses marks a pivotal moment in the history of Israel.

Background

Aaron was born into the tribe of Levi, the son of Amram and Jochebed, and the elder brother of Moses and Miriam (Exodus 6:20). His lineage is significant, as the Levites were later designated as the priestly tribe of Israel. Aaron's early life is not detailed extensively in the Scriptures, but his role becomes prominent during the events leading up to the Exodus.

Commissioning by God

Aaron's commissioning as a deliverer is intertwined with that of Moses. When God appeared to Moses in the burning bush, Moses expressed reluctance to speak to Pharaoh due to his lack of eloquence. In response, God appointed Aaron as Moses' spokesman. The Lord said to Moses, "Is there not Aaron your brother, the Levite? I know that he can speak well. And even now he is coming out to meet you. When he sees you, he will be glad in his heart" (Exodus 4:14). Thus, Aaron was divinely chosen to assist Moses in confronting Pharaoh and leading the Israelites out of Egypt.

Role in the Exodus

Aaron's role as a deliverer is evident throughout the plagues and the eventual liberation of the Israelites. He acted as Moses' mouthpiece, conveying God's commands to Pharaoh. In Exodus 7:1-2 , God instructed Moses, "See, I have made you like God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron will be your prophet. You are to speak all that I command you, and your brother Aaron is to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites go out of his land."

Aaron was instrumental in performing signs and wonders before Pharaoh. He cast down his staff, which became a serpent, and initiated several of the plagues by stretching out his hand with the staff, as commanded by God (Exodus 7:10, 19-20; 8:5-6, 16-17).

The Passover and Departure

During the Passover, Aaron, alongside Moses, instructed the Israelites on the preparation of the Passover lamb and the marking of their doorposts with blood, which would spare them from the final plague—the death of the firstborn (Exodus 12:1-28). This event precipitated the Exodus, as Pharaoh finally relented and allowed the Israelites to leave Egypt.

Leadership in the Wilderness

After the Exodus, Aaron continued to serve as a leader among the Israelites. He was consecrated as the first high priest, establishing the Aaronic priesthood, which played a central role in the religious life of Israel (Exodus 28-29). Despite his significant contributions, Aaron also faced challenges and failures, such as his involvement in the creation of the golden calf (Exodus 32:1-6).

Conclusion

Aaron's commissioning as a deliverer of Israel highlights his vital role in the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. As Moses' spokesman and a leader in his own right, Aaron's actions and legacy are integral to the narrative of the Exodus and the formation of Israel as a nation.Exodus 6:13,26,27
And the LORD spoke to Moses and to Aaron, and gave them a charge to the children of Israel, and to Pharaoh king of Egypt, to bring the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt.
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Joshua 24:5
I sent Moses also and Aaron, and I plagued Egypt, according to that which I did among them: and afterward I brought you out.
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1 Samuel 12:8
When Jacob was come into Egypt, and your fathers cried to the LORD, then the LORD sent Moses and Aaron, which brought forth your fathers out of Egypt, and made them dwell in this place.
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Psalm 77:20
You led your people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.
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Psalm 105:26
He sent Moses his servant; and Aaron whom he had chosen.
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Micah 6:4
For I brought you up out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed you out of the house of servants; and I sent before you Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.
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Appendix viii. Rabbinic Traditions About Elijah, the Forerunner of ...
... tradition has it, that, when Moses was commissioned by God ... curious traditions about
this rod of Aaron, as given ... him to Jethro as the future deliverer of Israel ...
/.../appendix viii rabbinic traditions about.htm

What should we learn from the golden calf incident in Exodus 32? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Miriam in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

How were Pharaoh's magicians able to perform miracles? | GotQuestions.org

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