Introduction

The Benedictions by Aaron, often referred to as the "Priestly Blessing" or "Aaronic Blessing," hold a significant place in Judeo-Christian liturgical traditions. These blessings are found in the Book of Numbers and are attributed to Aaron, the brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. The benedictions are a profound expression of divine favor and protection, encapsulating the heart of God's covenantal relationship with His people.

Biblical Text

The primary source for the Benedictions by Aaron is found in Numbers 6:22-27. The Berean Standard Bible renders the passage as follows:

"The LORD said to Moses, 'Speak to Aaron and his sons: This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:
The LORD bless you and keep you;
the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you;
the LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.'
So they shall put My name on the Israelites, and I will bless them."

Structure and Meaning

The Aaronic Benediction is composed of three distinct yet interconnected parts, each invoking the name of the LORD (YHWH) and conveying a specific aspect of divine blessing:

1. The LORD bless you and keep you: This opening line emphasizes God's provision and protection. The term "bless" (Hebrew: בָּרַךְ, barak) implies a bestowal of favor and prosperity, while "keep" (Hebrew: שָׁמַר, shamar) suggests a guarding or preserving action, ensuring the safety and well-being of the recipient.

2. The LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you: Here, the imagery of God's face shining upon His people signifies His presence and favor. The shining face is a metaphor for divine approval and benevolence. The request for grace (Hebrew: חָנַן, chanan) highlights God's unmerited favor and compassion towards His people.

3. The LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace: The lifting of God's countenance indicates His attentive care and concern. The culmination of the blessing is the gift of peace (Hebrew: שָׁלוֹם, shalom), a comprehensive term that encompasses wholeness, harmony, and well-being.

Theological Significance

The Aaronic Benediction is deeply rooted in the covenantal theology of the Old Testament. It reflects the unique relationship between God and Israel, where God promises to be their protector, provider, and source of peace. The repetition of the divine name YHWH underscores the personal and relational nature of these blessings.

In the context of the priestly role, Aaron and his descendants were mediators of God's blessings to the people. The act of blessing was not merely a ritualistic formula but a powerful invocation of God's presence and favor. By placing God's name upon the Israelites, the priests affirmed their identity as God's chosen people, set apart for His purposes.

Liturgical Use

Throughout history, the Aaronic Benediction has been incorporated into Jewish and Christian liturgies. In Jewish tradition, it is recited during synagogue services, particularly on festivals and the Sabbath. In Christian worship, it is often used as a closing benediction, invoking God's blessing upon the congregation as they depart.

Conclusion

The Benedictions by Aaron continue to resonate with believers today, offering a timeless reminder of God's enduring love and faithfulness. Through these words, the faithful are assured of God's protection, grace, and peace, anchoring their hope in His unchanging promises.Leviticus 9:22,23
And Aaron lifted up his hand toward the people, and blessed them, and came down from offering of the sin offering, and the burnt offering, and peace offerings.
Nave's Topical Index

The Synagogue.
... or closet for the sacred rolls (called "Copheret" or Mercy Seat, also "Aaron"). ... or
Keriath Shema, and consisted of two introductory benedictions, the reading ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 51 the synagogue.htm

The Worship of the Synagogue
... merely teachers or doctors, but by lineal descendants of the house of Aaron. ... which
was preceded in the morning and evening by two "benedictions," and succeeded ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/chapter 17 the worship of.htm

Of the Union of the Blessed with God in the vision of the ...
... on the head, that ran down upon the beard, the beard of Aaron, which ran ... with what
celebration and solemnity, with what praises and benedictions, should be kept ...
/.../francis/treatise on the love of god/chapter xiii of the union.htm

The Pastor's Parting Blessing
... One of the benedictions frequently used by the apostle expressly mentions peace. ...
Even Aaron himself could not pronounce a fuller blessing. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/the pastors parting blessing.htm

The Synagogue at Nazareth - Synagogue-Worship and Arrangements.
... son, it is possible still to know who are descendants of Aaron, and who Levites.
The reading of the Law was both preceded and followed by brief Benedictions. ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter x the synagogue at.htm

The Paschal Supper - the Institution of the Lord's Supper.
... of Christ was real, yet not after the order of Aaron, so was ... it the thanksgiving.'
The form presently in use consists really of two benedictions - the first ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter x the paschal supper.htm

The Rent Veil
... Aaron, standing there alone, must have been filled with memories of his own ... each
one have boldness to enter in, that we may come forth laden with benedictions! ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 34 1888/the rent veil.htm

The Blessing of God.
... His loving heart is so gladdened that it further overflows in these rich benedictions. ...
"And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto Aaron and unto his ...
/.../taylor/separation and service/part ii the blessing of.htm

Traditionalism, Its Origin, Character, and Literature - the ...
... prayer, successively by Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; of the three benedictions in
the ... Moses had always repeated a traditional law successively to Aaron, to his ...
/.../chapter viii traditionalism its origin.htm

Brief Outline of Ancient Jewish Theological Literature
... On the other hand, between the eighteen "benedictions" said on ordinary days ... to
tradition, Moses explained the traditional law successively to Aaron, to his sons ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/chapter 18 brief outline of.htm

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