The concept of a designated portion for Aaron and his sons is rooted in the Old Testament, where God established specific provisions for the priestly family of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and his descendants. This provision is a significant aspect of the Levitical priesthood, as it underscores the special role and responsibilities assigned to Aaron and his lineage in the religious life of Israel.

Biblical Foundation

The primary biblical foundation for the portion allocated to Aaron and his sons is found in the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These texts outline the duties, privileges, and sustenance of the priestly class.

In Exodus 29:9, God commands Moses to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests: "Wrap the sashes around Aaron and his sons and tie headbands on them. The priesthood is to be theirs by a permanent statute. In this way you shall ordain Aaron and his sons." This ordination set them apart for service in the tabernacle and later the temple.

Portions from Sacrifices

The Levitical laws specify that Aaron and his sons were to receive portions from various offerings made by the Israelites. Leviticus 7:35-36 states: "This is the portion of the offerings made by fire to the LORD for Aaron and his sons on the day they were presented to serve the LORD as priests. On that day the LORD commanded that the Israelites give this to them as their perpetual share for the generations to come."

The priests were entitled to specific parts of the sacrifices, such as the breast and the right thigh from peace offerings (Leviticus 7:31-34). Additionally, they received portions from sin offerings and guilt offerings, as outlined in Leviticus 6 and 7.

Tithes and Offerings

Beyond the sacrificial portions, Aaron and his sons were also beneficiaries of the tithes and offerings brought by the Israelites. Numbers 18:8-9 declares: "Then the LORD said to Aaron, 'I have given you charge of the contributions made to Me. As an allotment for you and your sons, I have given you the portion of the offerings made by fire. This is a permanent statute.'"

The Levites, who assisted the priests, received the tithes from the people, and from these tithes, a tenth was given to the priests (Numbers 18:26-28). This system ensured that the priests, who had no inheritance of land like the other tribes, were provided for through the religious contributions of the community.

Inheritance and Land

Unlike the other tribes of Israel, the tribe of Levi, to which Aaron and his sons belonged, did not receive a territorial inheritance in the Promised Land. Instead, their inheritance was the Lord Himself and the offerings made to Him. As stated in Deuteronomy 18:1-2: "The Levitical priests—indeed the whole tribe of Levi—shall have no portion or inheritance with Israel. They shall eat the offerings made by fire to the LORD, for that is their inheritance. Although they have no inheritance among their brothers, the LORD is their inheritance, as He promised them."

Significance

The portion for Aaron and his sons highlights the unique role of the priesthood in mediating between God and the people of Israel. It underscores the principle that those who serve in the temple and perform sacred duties are to be supported by the community they serve. This provision reflects the broader biblical theme of God's care and provision for those dedicated to His service, ensuring that their material needs are met as they fulfill their spiritual responsibilities.