Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar are the four sons of Aaron, the brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. These men are significant figures in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of the priesthood and the early religious practices of the Israelites.

Nadab and Abihu

Nadab and Abihu were the eldest sons of Aaron. They were consecrated as priests alongside their father when the tabernacle was established in the wilderness. Their account is primarily found in the Book of Leviticus. In Leviticus 10:1-2 , it is recorded that Nadab and Abihu "took their censers, put fire in them, and added incense; and they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to His command. So fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died before the LORD."

This incident highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, especially concerning worship and the priestly duties. Nadab and Abihu's actions were seen as a grave transgression, as they did not follow the specific instructions given by God regarding the sacred rituals. Their deaths served as a sobering reminder to the Israelites of the holiness required in approaching God.

Eleazar

Eleazar was the third son of Aaron and played a significant role in the priesthood after the deaths of his older brothers. He was appointed as the chief of the Levites and was responsible for overseeing the sanctuary and its services. In Numbers 3:32 , it is stated, "The chief of the leaders of the Levites was Eleazar son of Aaron the priest. He was responsible for the oversight of those who guarded the sanctuary."

Eleazar's faithfulness and dedication to his duties are evident throughout the Pentateuch. After Aaron's death, 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." This transition marked the continuation of the Aaronic priesthood through Eleazar's line.

Ithamar

Ithamar, the youngest son of Aaron, also served as a priest. He worked alongside his brother Eleazar in the tabernacle and was entrusted with various responsibilities. In Exodus 38:21 , Ithamar is mentioned in connection with the oversight of the tabernacle's construction: "This is the inventory of the tabernacle, the tabernacle of the Testimony, as recorded at Moses’ command by the Levites under the direction of Ithamar son of Aaron the priest."

Ithamar's descendants continued to serve in the priesthood, and his line is noted for producing several significant figures in Israel's religious history. Despite the tragic events involving his older brothers, Ithamar remained faithful in his service to God and contributed to the establishment of the priestly order.

Together, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar represent both the solemn responsibilities and the sacred privileges of the priesthood in ancient Israel. Their lives and actions underscore the importance of reverence, obedience, and dedication in the service of God.