Topical Encyclopedia Abihu, a son of Aaron, the brother of Moses, is a significant figure in the early priesthood of Israel. He, along with his brother Nadab, was consecrated as a priest to serve in the tabernacle, as described in the Book of Exodus. Abihu's death is a pivotal event that underscores the sanctity and seriousness of the priestly duties and the worship of Yahweh.Biblical Account The account of Abihu's death is recorded in the Book of Leviticus. Abihu, along with his brother Nadab, met their demise under dramatic and divine circumstances. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following account: "Now Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu took their censers, put fire in them and added incense; and they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to His command. So fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died in the presence of the LORD." (Leviticus 10:1-2) This passage highlights the nature of their transgression—offering "unauthorized fire" before the Lord. The exact nature of this unauthorized fire is not detailed, but it is clear that it was contrary to the command of God, indicating a breach of the prescribed worship practices. Context and Significance The death of Abihu and his brother Nadab occurred shortly after the consecration of the tabernacle and the initiation of the priestly service. This event served as a stern warning to the Israelites about the holiness required in approaching God and the importance of adhering strictly to His commands. The incident emphasizes the theme of God's holiness and the need for reverence in worship. Following their death, Moses instructed Aaron and his remaining sons, Eleazar and Ithamar, not to mourn in the customary manner, as a sign of respect for the sanctity of the Lord's dwelling: "Moses then said to Aaron and his sons Eleazar and Ithamar, 'Do not let your hair become unkempt and do not tear your clothes, or you will die and the LORD will be angry with the whole community. But your relatives, all the house of Israel, may mourn for those the LORD has destroyed by fire.'" (Leviticus 10:6) Theological Implications The death of Abihu, along with Nadab, serves as a theological lesson on the nature of divine holiness and the seriousness of the priestly office. It underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands and the dangers of presumption in worship. This event is often cited in discussions about the holiness of God and the proper conduct of worship, serving as a reminder of the reverence due to God in all acts of worship and service. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 10:1,2And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 26:61 Library Strange Fire Of the Priesthood of Aaron. Authorship of the Pentateuch. The Pentateuch. To his Father, when He had Entrusted to Him the Care of the Church ... Concerning Things done in Illumination. The Acts of the Apostles and the Acknowledged Epistles. The Value of this Doctrine Princely Service. The Blood of the Testament Resources How many times did Moses ascend Mount Sinai? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about mourning? | GotQuestions.org Who was Aaron in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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