Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites, played a pivotal role in guiding the people of Israel from slavery in Egypt to the brink of the Promised Land. As his life and leadership drew to a close, Moses imparted crucial instructions to Eleazar the priest and Joshua, his appointed successor. These instructions were vital for the continuation of leadership and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel.

Context and Background

Moses' instructions to Eleazar and Joshua occur during the final stages of Israel's wilderness journey. After forty years of wandering, the Israelites stood on the plains of Moab, poised to enter Canaan. Moses, having been told by God that he would not enter the Promised Land due to his disobedience at Meribah (Numbers 20:12), prepared to pass the mantle of leadership to Joshua, the son of Nun.

Instructions to Eleazar

Eleazar, the son of Aaron, served as the high priest following his father's death. As a spiritual leader, Eleazar's role was crucial in maintaining the religious and ceremonial aspects of Israelite life. Moses' instructions to Eleazar emphasized the importance of his priestly duties in guiding the people according to God's laws and ensuring the proper conduct of worship and sacrifices.

In Numbers 27:18-21, Moses is commanded by God to lay his hands on Joshua in the presence of Eleazar, signifying the transfer of leadership. Eleazar's involvement underscores the priestly authority and divine approval of Joshua's appointment. The passage states:

"Take Joshua son of Nun, a man who has the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him. Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation, and commission him in their sight. Confer on him some of your authority, so that the whole congregation of the Israelites will obey him. He shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who will obtain decisions for him by inquiring of the Urim before the LORD. At his command, he and the entire community of the Israelites will go out and come in."

Instructions to Joshua

Joshua, known for his faithfulness and military prowess, was chosen by God to lead Israel into Canaan. Moses' instructions to Joshua were both a charge and a blessing, encouraging him to be strong and courageous in the face of the daunting task ahead. In Deuteronomy 31:7-8, Moses publicly commissions Joshua, saying:

"Be strong and courageous, for you will go with this people into the land that the LORD swore to their fathers to give them, and you shall give it to them as an inheritance. The LORD Himself goes before you; He will be with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged."

Moses' words to Joshua highlight the necessity of reliance on God's presence and promises. Joshua's leadership was to be marked by obedience to the Law given through Moses, ensuring that the people remained faithful to their covenant with God.

Significance

The instructions to Eleazar and Joshua represent a critical transition in Israel's history. They underscore the continuity of God's covenantal promises and the importance of faithful leadership. Moses' careful preparation for his departure and the subsequent leadership of Joshua ensured that the Israelites were equipped to conquer and settle in the Promised Land, fulfilling the divine promise made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.