Biblical Context:
Moses' inquiry and Aaron's response are pivotal moments in the narrative of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, as recorded in the Book of Exodus. This event occurs after the Israelites have been delivered from Egyptian bondage and are in the process of receiving God's laws and instructions for worship and community living.

Scriptural Reference:
The primary account of Moses' inquiry and Aaron's response is found in Exodus 32. This chapter details the incident of the Golden Calf, a significant event that highlights issues of idolatry, leadership, and intercession.

Narrative Overview:
While Moses is on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments from God, the Israelites grow impatient and demand that Aaron make them a god to lead them. Aaron complies and fashions a golden calf from the people's gold jewelry. Upon descending from the mountain, Moses witnesses the idolatry and is filled with righteous anger. He breaks the tablets of the law and confronts Aaron about his actions.

Moses' Inquiry:
Moses' inquiry is direct and confrontational. In Exodus 32:21 , Moses asks Aaron, "What did this people do to you that you have brought such a great sin upon them?" This question underscores Moses' shock and dismay at Aaron's failure to uphold the covenantal faithfulness expected of the Israelites.

Aaron's Response:
Aaron's response is an attempt to deflect responsibility and justify his actions. In Exodus 32:22-24 , Aaron replies, "Do not be enraged, my lord. You yourself know that the people are intent on evil. They said to me, 'Make us gods who will go before us. As for this Moses, the man who brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we do not know what has happened to him.' So I said to them, 'Whoever has gold, let him take it off,' and they gave it to me. I threw it into the fire, and out came this calf."

Theological Implications:
This exchange between Moses and Aaron reveals several theological themes:

1. Leadership and Accountability: Aaron's failure to lead the people in Moses' absence highlights the importance of steadfast leadership. His attempt to shift blame reflects a lack of accountability, which is crucial for those in positions of spiritual authority.

2. Idolatry and Covenant Faithfulness: The creation of the golden calf represents a breach of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It serves as a stark reminder of the human tendency toward idolatry and the need for vigilance in maintaining faithfulness to God.

3. Intercession and Mercy: Following Aaron's response, Moses intercedes on behalf of the people, pleading with God to spare them from destruction. This act of intercession underscores the role of a mediator and the mercy of God, who relents from bringing total disaster upon the Israelites.

4. Divine Justice and Forgiveness: The incident concludes with a demonstration of divine justice, as those who persist in rebellion are punished. Yet, it also points to the possibility of forgiveness and restoration for those who repent and return to the Lord.

Historical and Cultural Context:
The making of the golden calf can be understood within the broader context of ancient Near Eastern religious practices, where idol worship was prevalent. The Israelites' actions reflect the influence of Egyptian culture, from which they had recently emerged. This context emphasizes the challenge of maintaining distinctiveness as God's chosen people amidst surrounding pagan cultures.

Moses and Aaron's Relationship:
The relationship between Moses and Aaron is complex, marked by both cooperation and tension. As brothers and leaders, their interactions in this narrative reveal the challenges of shared leadership and the necessity of mutual support and accountability in fulfilling God's purposes.

Conclusion:
The episode of Moses' inquiry and Aaron's response serves as a profound lesson in the dangers of idolatry, the responsibilities of leadership, and the enduring grace of God. It calls believers to a deeper commitment to faithfulness and integrity in their walk with the Lord.