Eleazar is a significant figure in the Old Testament, known primarily as the third son of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and the high priest of Israel. His name, meaning "God has helped," reflects his role in the spiritual leadership of the Israelites. Eleazar's life and duties are chronicled in various books of the Bible, including Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Joshua.

After the death of his brothers Nadab and Abihu, who were consumed by fire for offering unauthorized incense before the Lord (Leviticus 10:1-2), Eleazar assumed a more prominent role in the priesthood. As the eldest surviving son of Aaron, he was appointed as the chief of the Levites and was responsible for overseeing the sanctuary and its sacred duties. Numbers 3:32 states, "The chief of the leaders of the Levites was Eleazar son of Aaron the priest. He was responsible for the oversight of those who were responsible for the sanctuary."

Eleazar played a crucial role during the Israelites' wilderness journey. He assisted Moses in the census of the tribes (Numbers 26:1-4) and was involved in the distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel (Joshua 14:1). After Aaron's death on Mount Hor, Eleazar succeeded him as high priest, as recorded in Numbers 20:25-28: "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."

Eleazar's legacy continued through his descendants, who maintained the high priesthood. His son Phinehas is noted for his zealousness for God's honor, which turned away God's wrath from the Israelites (Numbers 25:10-13). Eleazar's faithfulness and dedication to his priestly duties exemplify the importance of obedience and reverence in serving God.

Kish

Kish is a biblical figure known primarily as the father of Saul, the first king of Israel. He is a member of the tribe of Benjamin and is described as a man of wealth and standing. The genealogy of Kish is outlined in 1 Samuel 9:1: "Now there was a man of Benjamin named Kish son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite of standing."

Kish's most notable contribution to biblical history is his role as the progenitor of Saul. The narrative of Saul's anointing as king begins with Kish sending his son to find their lost donkeys, which leads Saul to the prophet Samuel (1 Samuel 9:3-4). This seemingly mundane task sets the stage for Saul's divine appointment as king over Israel.

Though Kish himself does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative, his lineage is significant. The tribe of Benjamin, to which Kish belonged, was the smallest of the tribes of Israel, yet it produced the first king. This highlights the biblical theme of God choosing the humble and the least to fulfill His purposes.

Kish's family line is further mentioned in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles, where his descendants are listed, emphasizing the continuity of his lineage. Despite the eventual decline of Saul's dynasty, Kish's place in biblical history is secured through his connection to Israel's first monarchy.