The appointment of Aaron as the first high priest of Israel is a significant event in the biblical narrative, marking the establishment of the Levitical priesthood. This appointment is primarily documented in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers, where Aaron, the brother of Moses, is chosen by God to serve as the intermediary between God and the Israelites.

Background and Context

Aaron, the son of Amram and Jochebed, of the tribe of Levi, was born in Egypt during the period of Israelite enslavement. He was three years older than his brother Moses (Exodus 7:7). Aaron's role as a spokesperson and leader is first highlighted when God appoints him to assist Moses in confronting Pharaoh and leading the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 4:14-16).

Divine Appointment

The formal appointment of Aaron as high priest is detailed in Exodus 28 and 29. God commands Moses to "bring near to you your brother Aaron and his sons with him, from among the Israelites, to serve Me as priests" (Exodus 28:1). This divine selection underscores the importance of the priesthood in maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Priestly Garments and Consecration

God provides specific instructions for the garments Aaron is to wear, which include the ephod, breastpiece, robe, tunic, turban, and sash (Exodus 28:2-4). These garments are not only for glory and beauty but also signify Aaron's sacred duties. The consecration ceremony, described in Exodus 29, involves sacrifices, anointing with oil, and the laying on of hands, symbolizing Aaron's sanctification and readiness to serve as high priest.

Role and Responsibilities

As high priest, Aaron's primary responsibilities included offering sacrifices, maintaining the sanctuary, and interceding on behalf of the people. Leviticus 16 outlines the Day of Atonement, a critical aspect of Aaron's duties, where he enters the Holy of Holies to make atonement for himself and the nation. Aaron's role is further emphasized in Numbers 18, where God delineates the responsibilities and privileges of the priesthood.

Challenges and Failures

Despite his high calling, Aaron faced challenges and failures. Notably, he succumbed to the people's demands and fashioned the golden calf while Moses was on Mount Sinai (Exodus 32:1-6). This incident highlights the tension between Aaron's human frailty and his divine appointment. Nevertheless, Aaron's role as high priest continued, demonstrating God's grace and the enduring nature of the priestly office.

Confirmation of Aaron's Priesthood

In Numbers 17, God reaffirms Aaron's priesthood through the miraculous budding of his staff. This event serves to quell rebellion and confirm Aaron's divine appointment, as God instructs Moses to place Aaron's staff before the Ark of the Covenant as a sign for future generations (Numbers 17:10).

Legacy

Aaron's appointment as high priest established a hereditary priesthood through his descendants, the Levites, who continued to serve in the tabernacle and later the temple. His legacy is integral to the religious life of Israel, as the priesthood played a central role in worship and the sacrificial system.

Aaron's appointment and service as high priest are foundational to understanding the biblical priesthood, foreshadowing the ultimate high priest, Jesus Christ, who fulfills and transcends the Levitical priesthood (Hebrews 4:14-16).