Numbers 16:47

So Aaron took the censer as Moses had ordered and ran into the midst of the assembly. And seeing that the plague had begun among the people, he offered the incense and made atonement for the people.

Study Bible

So Aaron took it
In this phrase, Aaron's immediate obedience is highlighted. The Hebrew root for "took" is "laqach," which implies a decisive action. Aaron's role as a high priest is underscored here, as he acts swiftly in response to Moses' command. This reflects the urgency and gravity of the situation, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's appointed leaders. Historically, Aaron's actions demonstrate the priestly duty to intercede on behalf of the people, a foreshadowing of Christ's intercessory role.

as Moses had said
This phrase underscores the authority of Moses as God's chosen leader. The Hebrew word for "said" is "amar," which conveys not just speaking but commanding. Moses, as a prophet, speaks with divine authority, and Aaron's compliance signifies the respect and trust in God's communication through His prophets. This reflects the broader biblical theme of the importance of heeding God's word as delivered through His appointed messengers.

and ran into the midst of the assembly
The word "ran" indicates urgency and determination. The Hebrew root "ruts" suggests a swift and purposeful movement. Aaron's action of running into the "midst of the assembly" shows his willingness to stand in the gap for the people, risking his own life to save others. This act of selflessness is a powerful image of intercession and sacrifice, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ for humanity.

The plague had already begun among the people
This phrase sets the dire context of the situation. The Hebrew word for "plague" is "negef," which can mean a blow or a striking. It signifies a divine judgment that has already commenced. The historical context here is crucial, as it reflects the consequences of rebellion against God, seen earlier in the chapter with Korah's rebellion. The immediacy of the plague highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.

But Aaron offered the incense
The act of offering incense is deeply symbolic. The Hebrew word for "offered" is "qatar," which means to burn or to make smoke. Incense in the tabernacle was a symbol of prayer and intercession. Aaron's offering of incense represents the prayers of the righteous, standing between the living and the dead. This act is a vivid illustration of the power of intercession and the role of the priesthood in mediating between God and man.

and made atonement for them
The concept of atonement is central to the biblical narrative. The Hebrew word "kaphar" means to cover or to make reconciliation. Aaron's act of making atonement is a temporary covering for the people's sin, pointing forward to the ultimate atonement made by Christ on the cross. This phrase encapsulates the heart of the gospel message: reconciliation with God through a mediator. Aaron's actions prefigure the work of Jesus, the ultimate High Priest, who makes atonement for the sins of the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. In this passage, Aaron acts as an intercessor for the people, standing between the living and the dead to stop the plague.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who instructs Aaron to take action to stop the plague. Moses is a central figure in the Exodus account and a mediator between God and the people.

3. The Assembly
Refers to the congregation of Israelites who were affected by the plague due to their rebellion against Moses and Aaron.

4. The Plague
A divine punishment that had begun among the Israelites as a result of their rebellion, demonstrating God's judgment and the seriousness of sin.

5. Incense and Atonement
Aaron uses incense as a means of making atonement, symbolizing intercession and the appeasement of God's wrath.

Teaching Points

The Role of Intercession
Aaron's actions demonstrate the power and necessity of intercession. As believers, we are called to intercede for others, standing in the gap through prayer and supplication.

The Seriousness of Sin
The plague represents the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. It serves as a reminder of the need for repentance and obedience to God's commands.

The Power of Atonement
Aaron's offering of incense symbolizes the atonement that is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. It points to the need for a mediator between God and humanity.

Obedience to God’s Instructions
Aaron's immediate response to Moses' command highlights the importance of obedience to God's appointed leaders and instructions.

God’s Mercy and Grace
Despite the rebellion, God provides a way for the plague to be stopped, showcasing His mercy and willingness to forgive when there is genuine intercession and atonement.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Aaron's role as an intercessor in Numbers 16:47 foreshadow the work of Christ as our high priest?

2. In what ways can we act as intercessors in our own communities, and what practical steps can we take to stand in the gap for others?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of sin. How did you seek atonement and reconciliation with God?

4. How does the concept of atonement in the Old Testament enhance your understanding of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross?

5. What lessons can we learn from Aaron's obedience to Moses' instructions, and how can we apply these lessons in our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 16
This chapter describes the Day of Atonement, where the high priest makes atonement for the people, similar to Aaron's role in Numbers 16:47.

Hebrews 7:25
This verse speaks of Jesus as our high priest who always lives to intercede for us, drawing a parallel to Aaron's intercessory role.

Psalm 106:30
This Psalm recounts the event of Aaron standing between the living and the dead, highlighting the power of intercession.