Eleazar, the third son of Aaron and Elisheba, emerges as a significant figure in the priestly lineage of Israel. His name, meaning "God has helped," reflects his divinely appointed role within the Levitical priesthood. As a direct descendant of Aaron, Eleazar was consecrated to serve in the sacred duties of the Tabernacle, and later, the Temple.

Priestly Duties and Responsibilities

Eleazar's responsibilities were extensive and critical to the spiritual life of Israel. Following the death of his brothers Nadab and Abihu, who perished for offering unauthorized fire before the LORD (Leviticus 10:1-2), Eleazar assumed a more prominent role alongside his father, Aaron, and his younger brother, Ithamar.

1. Oversight of the Sanctuary: Eleazar was entrusted with the oversight of the sanctuary and its sacred contents. Numbers 4:16 states, "Eleazar son of Aaron the priest is to have charge of the oil for the light, the fragrant incense, the regular grain offering, and the anointing oil. He is to oversee the entire tabernacle and everything in it, including its holy furnishings and articles."

2. Supervision of the Levites: As a leader among the Levites, Eleazar was responsible for supervising the work of the Levite clans, particularly during the transportation of the Tabernacle. Numbers 3:32 notes, "The chief of the leaders of the Levites was Eleazar son of Aaron the priest. He had oversight of those responsible for the care of the sanctuary."

3. Offering Sacrifices: In his priestly capacity, Eleazar was involved in the sacrificial system, ensuring that offerings were made according to the LORD's commandments. This included the daily offerings, as well as special sacrifices during festivals and holy convocations.

4. Custodian of the Holy Articles: Eleazar was charged with the care of the holy articles used in worship. This included the sacred vessels and utensils, which were essential for the rituals performed in the Tabernacle.

5. Successor to Aaron: Upon Aaron's death, Eleazar succeeded him as the high priest of Israel. Numbers 20:25-28 describes the transfer of the high priestly garments from Aaron to Eleazar on Mount Hor, signifying the continuation of the priestly line through him.

Role in the Conquest of Canaan

Eleazar played a pivotal role during the conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership. As high priest, he was instrumental in the distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel. Joshua 14:1 records, "Now these are the portions that the Israelites inherited in the land of Canaan, which Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the heads of the families of the tribes of Israel allotted to them."

Legacy and Significance

Eleazar's faithful service and adherence to God's commands established a legacy of priestly integrity and devotion. His life exemplifies the critical role of the priesthood in mediating between God and His people, ensuring that worship was conducted in accordance with divine ordinances. Through Eleazar, the priestly line continued, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Aaronic priesthood as a central institution in Israel's religious life.

In summary, Eleazar's duties as a priest were multifaceted and vital to the spiritual and communal well-being of the Israelites. His leadership and dedication to his sacred responsibilities underscore the importance of obedience and reverence in the service of God.Numbers 4:16
And to the office of Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest pertains the oil for the light, and the sweet incense, and the daily meat offering, and the anointing oil, and the oversight of all the tabernacle, and of all that therein is, in the sanctuary, and in the vessels thereof.
Nave's Topical Index

The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects.
... INDEX OF SUBJECTS. Aaron, [1]373. ... Eleazer, the high priest, [992]97. Eleazer of Bathezor,
[993]140. ... Eli, son of Melchi, [1002]91, [1003]92, [1004]94. ...
/.../pamphilius/the life of constantine/the church history of eusebius.htm

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