Leviticus 10:3

Then Moses said to Aaron, "This is what the LORD meant when He said: 'To those who come near Me I will show My holiness, and in the sight of all the people I will reveal My glory.'" But Aaron remained silent.

Study Bible

Then Moses said to Aaron
This phrase sets the stage for a critical moment of communication between Moses, the leader and prophet, and Aaron, the high priest. The Hebrew root for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which often implies a declaration or proclamation. This is not merely a casual conversation but a significant pronouncement. Moses, as God's spokesperson, is conveying a divine message, emphasizing the gravity of the situation following the tragic events involving Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu.

This is what the LORD meant
The phrase underscores the authority and intentionality of God's words. The Hebrew term for "LORD" is "יהוה" (YHWH), the sacred name of God, indicating His eternal and self-existent nature. The use of "meant" suggests a deeper understanding or revelation of God's will and purpose. It implies that the events that transpired were not random but were within the sovereign plan of God, serving as a teaching moment for Israel.

when He said
This phrase points back to previous divine instructions or warnings. It suggests that God had already communicated His standards and expectations, likely referring to earlier commands about holiness and the sanctity of the priestly duties. The emphasis is on the continuity and consistency of God's word, which remains unchanging and authoritative.

I will show My holiness
The Hebrew root for "holiness" is "קָדֹשׁ" (qadosh), meaning set apart, sacred, or consecrated. God's holiness is a central theme in Leviticus, highlighting His purity and moral perfection. By stating "I will show," God is asserting His active role in demonstrating His distinct nature. This serves as a reminder that those who approach God must do so with reverence and obedience, acknowledging His supreme holiness.

to those who are near Me
This phrase refers to the priests, particularly Aaron and his sons, who were given the privilege and responsibility of serving in God's presence. The Hebrew word for "near" is "קָרוֹב" (qarov), indicating proximity or closeness. It underscores the special relationship and accountability of those who minister before God. Their nearness to God requires a higher standard of conduct and purity.

and I will reveal My glory
The Hebrew word for "glory" is "כָּבוֹד" (kavod), which conveys the idea of weightiness, honor, and splendor. God's glory is His manifest presence and the visible expression of His divine attributes. By revealing His glory, God is making His power and majesty known to the people, reinforcing His authority and the seriousness of His commands.

before all the people
This phrase indicates that God's actions and the consequences of disobedience are meant to be a public demonstration. The community of Israel is to witness and learn from these events. It serves as a powerful reminder that God's holiness and glory are not confined to the priesthood but are to be acknowledged and revered by the entire nation.

But Aaron remained silent
Aaron's silence is profound and speaks volumes. The Hebrew root for "silent" is "דָּמַם" (damam), which can mean to be still or to cease. In the face of personal tragedy and divine judgment, Aaron's silence reflects submission and acceptance of God's will. It is an acknowledgment of God's righteousness and a demonstration of humility and reverence in the presence of His holiness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and to communicate His laws and commandments.

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel, responsible for the priestly duties and maintaining the sanctity of the tabernacle.

3. Nadab and Abihu
The sons of Aaron who offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, resulting in their death as a demonstration of God's holiness.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who demands holiness and reverence from His people, especially those who serve in His presence.

5. The Tabernacle
The dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where His presence was manifest and where the priests performed their sacred duties.

Teaching Points

Holiness of God
God's holiness is non-negotiable. Those who serve Him must approach with reverence and obedience, understanding the seriousness of His commands.

Reverence in Worship
Worship is not to be taken lightly. It requires a heart and actions aligned with God's instructions, reflecting His holiness.

Consequences of Disobedience
Disobedience, especially in matters of worship and service to God, can lead to severe consequences, as seen in the lives of Nadab and Abihu.

Silence in Submission
Aaron's silence reflects a submission to God's will, even in the face of personal loss, acknowledging God's righteousness and justice.

God's Glory Revealed
God's actions, even in judgment, reveal His glory and serve as a reminder to the community of His power and holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the incident with Nadab and Abihu illustrate the importance of following God's specific instructions in worship?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship today reflects the holiness and reverence due to God?

3. How does Aaron's response to the death of his sons challenge us in our own reactions to God's discipline or difficult circumstances?

4. What are some modern-day examples of "unauthorized fire" in worship or service to God, and how can we avoid them?

5. How do the themes of holiness and reverence in Leviticus 10:3 connect with the New Testament teachings on worship and service to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 19:22
This verse emphasizes the need for priests to consecrate themselves to avoid the LORD's wrath, highlighting the importance of holiness among those who approach God.

Isaiah 6:3
The seraphim proclaim God's holiness, reinforcing the theme that God is holy and His glory fills the earth, which is a central theme in Leviticus 10:3.

Hebrews 12:28-29
This passage speaks of worshiping God with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire, echoing the consequences faced by Nadab and Abihu.