Eleazar, also spelled Eleazer, is a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible, known for his role as the son of Aaron and his succession as the High Priest of Israel. His life and service are primarily chronicled in the Pentateuch, where he is depicted as a faithful servant of God and a key leader among the Israelites.

Family and Early Life

Eleazar was the third son of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and Elisheba, the daughter of Amminadab (Exodus 6:23). He was born into the tribe of Levi, which was set apart for priestly duties. As a member of this tribe, Eleazar was destined for a life of service in the Tabernacle, assisting his father Aaron, the first High Priest of Israel.

Role in the Wilderness

During the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, Eleazar played a crucial role in the religious life of the community. He was responsible for overseeing the sanctuary and its sacred objects. 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."

Eleazar's responsibilities extended beyond the care of the Tabernacle. He was also involved in significant events, such as the census of the Levites (Numbers 3:32) and the offering of the red heifer, which was used for purification rites (Numbers 19:1-10).

Succession as High Priest

Eleazar's most notable role came with the death of his father, Aaron. In Numbers 20:25-28, God instructed Moses to take Aaron and Eleazar up Mount Hor. There, Eleazar was clothed with Aaron's priestly garments, signifying his succession as High Priest: "Take Aaron and his son Eleazar and bring them up Mount Hor. Remove Aaron’s garments and put them on his son Eleazar. Aaron will be gathered to his people and will die there." This transition marked the continuation of the Aaronic priesthood through Eleazar.

Leadership in the Promised Land

As High Priest, Eleazar played a pivotal role in guiding the Israelites into the Promised Land. He worked closely with Joshua, Moses' successor, in the distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel (Joshua 14:1). Eleazar's leadership was instrumental in maintaining the spiritual and communal order as the Israelites settled in Canaan.

Legacy and Death

Eleazar's legacy is one of faithfulness and dedication to God's service. He is remembered for his steadfastness in upholding the duties of the priesthood and his role in the establishment of Israel in the Promised Land. Eleazar's death is recorded in Joshua 24:33: "Eleazar son of Aaron died and was buried at Gibeah, which had been given to his son Phinehas in the hill country of Ephraim."

Eleazar's lineage continued to hold the high priesthood for several generations, underscoring the enduring impact of his service and leadership. His life exemplifies the importance of obedience, stewardship, and faith in fulfilling God's purposes for His people.Numbers 20:26,28
And strip Aaron of his garments, and put them on Eleazar his son: and Aaron shall be gathered to his people, and shall die there.
Nave's Topical Index

Deuteronomy 10:6
And the children of Israel took their journey from Beeroth of the children of Jaakan to Mosera: there Aaron died, and there he was buried; and Eleazar his son ministered in the priest's office in his stead.
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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