Topical Encyclopedia Eleazar, also spelled Eleazer, is a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible, known for his role as a priest and leader among the Israelites. He was the third son of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and Elisheba, making him a member of the Levitical priesthood. Eleazar's life and service are chronicled in several books of the Bible, where he is depicted as a faithful servant of God and a key figure in the religious and communal life of the Israelites.Biblical Background Eleazar first comes into prominence following the tragic deaths of his older brothers, Nadab and Abihu, who were consumed by fire from the LORD for offering unauthorized fire before Him (Leviticus 10:1-2). After their deaths, Eleazar, along with his younger brother Ithamar, assumed greater responsibilities in the priestly duties under the guidance of their father, Aaron. Role in the Census One of Eleazar's notable contributions was his assistance to Moses in conducting a census of the Israelite community. This event is recorded in the Book of Numbers, where God commands Moses to take a census of the entire Israelite assembly by their clans and families, listing every man by name, one by one (Numbers 1:2). Eleazar, as a priest and leader, played a crucial role in this task, ensuring that the census was conducted according to divine instructions. The census was not merely a counting of people but served several purposes, including organizing the community for military service, establishing the basis for the distribution of land, and ensuring the proper functioning of the religious and social systems. Eleazar's involvement underscored his leadership and administrative skills, as well as his dedication to fulfilling God's commands. Spiritual Significance Eleazar's participation in the census highlights his commitment to the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. As a priest, he was responsible for maintaining the sanctity and order of the community, ensuring that the people remained faithful to God's laws. His role in the census also reflects the importance of obedience and accountability within the covenant community. Legacy Eleazar's legacy extends beyond his lifetime, as he succeeded Aaron as the high priest after Aaron's death on Mount Hor (Numbers 20:25-28). He continued to serve faithfully in this capacity, guiding the Israelites in their worship and adherence to God's commandments. Eleazar's descendants, including his son Phinehas, also played significant roles in the history of Israel, further cementing his legacy as a pivotal figure in the spiritual and communal life of the nation. In summary, Eleazar, the son of Aaron, is remembered as a devoted priest and leader who assisted Moses in the census, demonstrating his commitment to God's commands and the well-being of the Israelite community. His life and service exemplify the qualities of faithfulness, obedience, and leadership that are central to the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 26:63These are they that were numbered by Moses and Eleazar the priest, who numbered the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho. Nave's Topical Index Resources Who was Eleazar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the mighty men of David? | GotQuestions.org Who was Ithamar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Eleazar (Eleazer): A Merarite Levite Eleazar (Eleazer): A Returned Israelitish Exile Eleazar (Eleazer): An Inhabitant of Kirjath-Jearim Who Tended the Ark of the Covenant for a While Eleazar (Eleazer): Son of Aaron Eleazar (Eleazer): Son of Aaron with Joshua, Divides Palestine Eleazar (Eleazer): Son of Aaron: Assists Moses in the Census Eleazar (Eleazer): Son of Aaron: Death and Burial of Eleazar (Eleazer): Son of Aaron: Descendants of Eleazar (Eleazer): Son of Aaron: Duties of Eleazar (Eleazer): Son of Aaron: Married a Daughter of Putiel, Who Bore Him Phinehas Eleazar (Eleazer): Son of Aaron: Succeeds Aaron As High Priest Eleazar (Eleazer): Son of Dodo, and One of David's Distinguished Heroes Eleazar (Eleazer): Son of Phinehas Eleazar : Son of Aaron: After the Death of Nadab and Abihu is Made Chief of the Tribe of Levi Related Terms |