Introduction:
Abihu, a significant figure in the Old Testament, is primarily known as one of the sons of Aaron, the brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. Abihu, along with his brother Nadab, was part of the priestly lineage and played a role in the early religious practices of the Israelites. His life and actions are recorded in several passages of the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Exodus and Leviticus.

Family Background:
Abihu was the second son of Aaron and Elisheba, making him a member of the Levitical priesthood by birth. His brothers were Nadab, Eleazar, and Ithamar. As a son of Aaron, Abihu was consecrated to serve as a priest in the tabernacle, assisting his father in the sacred duties assigned to the priesthood.

Summoned to Sinai:
Abihu's most notable mention in the Scriptures occurs during the events at Mount Sinai. In Exodus 24, God commands Moses to ascend the mountain to receive the tablets of stone, the law, and the commandments. Abihu, along with Nadab, Aaron, and seventy of the elders of Israel, is summoned to accompany Moses partway up the mountain. This event signifies a moment of divine encounter and revelation.

Exodus 24:1 : "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Come up to the LORD, you and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel, and you are to worship at a distance.'"

Exodus 24:9-11 : "Then Moses went up with Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel, and they saw the God of Israel. Under His feet was a work like a pavement made of sapphire, as clear as the sky itself. But God did not lay His hand on the nobles of Israel; they saw Him, and they ate and drank."

This passage highlights the unique privilege granted to Abihu and the others, as they were allowed to witness a manifestation of God's presence. The experience at Sinai was a pivotal moment in the establishment of the covenant between God and Israel, with Abihu playing a role as a witness to this divine encounter.

Priestly Role and Tragic End:
Following the events at Sinai, Abihu continued to serve as a priest. However, his life took a tragic turn as recorded in Leviticus 10. Abihu and his brother Nadab offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to His command. This act of disobedience resulted in their immediate death by divine fire.

Leviticus 10:1-2 : "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."

This incident underscores the holiness and sanctity required in the service of God, as well as the severe consequences of failing to adhere to His commands. Abihu's death served as a sobering reminder to the Israelites of the importance of reverence and obedience in worship.

Legacy:
Abihu's legacy is a complex one, marked by both the honor of being summoned to witness God's presence at Sinai and the tragedy of his untimely death due to disobedience. His account serves as a cautionary tale within the biblical narrative, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to divine instructions in the worship and service of God.Exodus 24:9
Then went up Moses, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel:
Nave's Topical Index

The First Book
... short and shaggy garment, when they were summoned from the ... accordance with evidence
given, so that God's justice and ... So it was also when Abihu and Nadab, men ...
//christianbookshelf.org/salvian/on the government of god/the first book.htm

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