Leviticus 10:4

Moses summoned Mishael and Elzaphan, sons of Aaron's uncle Uzziel, and said to them, "Come here; carry the bodies of your cousins outside the camp, away from the front of the sanctuary."

Study Bible

Moses summoned
The act of summoning by Moses signifies his leadership and authority as the mediator between God and the Israelites. In Hebrew, the word for "summoned" is קָרָא (qara), which means to call or proclaim. This highlights Moses' role as a divinely appointed leader who acts according to God's instructions. Historically, Moses' leadership was crucial in guiding the Israelites through the wilderness, and his actions often served as a direct link between God and His people.

Mishael and Elzaphan
These individuals are identified as the sons of Uzziel, Aaron's uncle. Their mention here is significant as it underscores the importance of family and tribal connections within the Israelite community. The names Mishael and Elzaphan, meaning "Who is what God is?" and "God has protected," respectively, reflect the deep spiritual heritage and the belief in God's sovereignty and protection. Their role in this narrative also emphasizes the communal responsibility in maintaining the sanctity of the worship space.

the sons of Aaron’s uncle Uzziel
This phrase situates Mishael and Elzaphan within the Levitical family, highlighting the importance of lineage and priestly duties. Uzziel, being Aaron's uncle, places these men within the broader context of the Levitical priesthood, which was responsible for the spiritual leadership of Israel. The Levitical lineage was crucial for maintaining the purity and order of worship, as prescribed by God.

and said to them
Moses' directive to Mishael and Elzaphan is a command that carries both authority and urgency. The Hebrew verb אָמַר (amar) is used here, which means to say or speak. This indicates a clear and direct communication, reflecting the seriousness of the situation following the deaths of Nadab and Abihu. Moses' words are not merely suggestions but authoritative instructions that must be followed to uphold the sanctity of the sanctuary.

'Come here, carry your brothers
The phrase "Come here" is an imperative, calling for immediate action. The instruction to "carry your brothers" is both literal and symbolic. It involves the physical act of removing the bodies of Nadab and Abihu, but it also signifies the responsibility of the community to deal with sin and its consequences. The Hebrew word נָשָׂא (nasa) for "carry" can also mean to lift or bear, suggesting the burden of maintaining holiness within the camp.

outside the camp
This directive to move the bodies "outside the camp" is significant in maintaining the purity of the Israelite community. The camp represented the dwelling place of God among His people, and anything unclean or defiled was to be removed to preserve the sanctity of the space. This practice is rooted in the holiness code of Leviticus, which emphasizes separation from impurity and sin.

away from the front of the sanctuary
The sanctuary was the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among the Israelites. The need to remove the bodies "away from the front of the sanctuary" underscores the holiness of this space. The Hebrew term מִפְּנֵי (mipnei) means "from the presence of," indicating the necessity of keeping the sanctuary free from defilement. This action reflects the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and the requirement for His people to approach Him with reverence and purity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His laws and commandments. In this context, Moses is giving instructions following a tragic event.

2. Mishael and Elzaphan
Sons of Uzziel, Aaron's uncle. They are Levites, called upon by Moses to carry out a specific duty in the aftermath of Nadab and Abihu's death.

3. Uzziel
Aaron's uncle, making Mishael and Elzaphan cousins to Nadab and Abihu. His lineage is part of the Levitical priesthood.

4. Nadab and Abihu
Sons of Aaron who offered unauthorized fire before the Lord and were consumed by fire as a result of their disobedience.

5. The Sanctuary
The holy place where God's presence dwelt among the Israelites. It was to be kept pure and undefiled.

Teaching Points

Reverence for God's Holiness
The incident underscores the importance of approaching God with the utmost respect and obedience. It serves as a reminder that God's holiness demands reverence.

Obedience to God's Commands
The tragic outcome for Nadab and Abihu illustrates the necessity of adhering strictly to God's instructions. Believers are called to obey God's Word fully.

Community Responsibility
Mishael and Elzaphan's role in removing the bodies highlights the communal aspect of maintaining holiness. The community must work together to uphold God's standards.

The Role of Leadership
Moses' leadership in directing the response to the crisis shows the importance of godly leadership in guiding and maintaining order within the community.

Purity in Worship
The removal of Nadab and Abihu's bodies from the sanctuary area emphasizes the need for purity in worship spaces, both physically and spiritually.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the response of Moses in this passage teach us about leadership in times of crisis?

2. How can we apply the principle of reverence for God's holiness in our daily worship practices?

3. In what ways does the community's role in maintaining holiness apply to the modern church?

4. How does the account of Nadab and Abihu serve as a warning for us today regarding obedience to God's commands?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our worship remains pure and pleasing to God, both individually and corporately?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 6:18, 22
Provides genealogical context for Mishael and Elzaphan, establishing their Levitical heritage.

Leviticus 16:1-2
References the death of Nadab and Abihu, emphasizing the importance of approaching God with reverence and obedience.

Numbers 3:4
Reiterates the consequences of Nadab and Abihu's actions, highlighting the sanctity of priestly duties.

Hebrews 12:28-29
Connects the reverence and awe required in worship, reminding believers of God's holiness and the need for respectful worship.