Eleazar, a lesser-known yet important figure in the Bible, was a descendant of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and played a significant role in the history of Israel. His name means “God is my help,” and he served in various capacities throughout his life. Below, we’ll explore 10 interesting facts about Eleazar, his role in Scripture, and his significance in the history of God's people.
1. Eleazar Was the Son of Aaron
Eleazar was the son of Aaron, the first high priest of Israel. Aaron and his wife, Elisheba, had four sons, and Eleazar was the second-born. His brothers were Nadab, Abihu, and Ithamar. Eleazar’s lineage was crucial because, after the death of his brothers Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar became the rightful heir to the priestly line.
"These are the names of the sons of Aaron: Nadab the firstborn, and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar." (Exodus 6:23, ESV)
2. Eleazar Took Over the Priesthood After His Brothers' Death
Eleazar became the high priest after the tragic deaths of his two older brothers, Nadab and Abihu, who were consumed by fire for offering unauthorized fire before the Lord. Eleazar’s faithful service in this role was pivotal in preserving the priestly lineage and ensuring the continuity of the priesthood.
"Eleazar the son of Aaron took the place of his father, and the priesthood continued in his line." (Numbers 3:4, ESV)
3. Eleazar Assisted Moses in Key Events
Eleazar was present at several key moments in Israel's journey through the wilderness. He served under Moses and, later, under Joshua, providing leadership and guidance in Israel's religious practices. He was tasked with helping Moses during significant events, such as the dedication of the tabernacle.
"Eleazar the son of Aaron took the censer and brought it into the tent of meeting, and it was received before the Lord." (Numbers 16:46-47, ESV)
4. Eleazar Was Appointed to Oversee the Tabernacle
After the Israelites built the tabernacle, Eleazar was put in charge of the duties surrounding the tabernacle's care and maintenance. He ensured that the holy objects were handled properly and that the priestly rituals were performed according to God’s command.
"Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest shall be the chief over the leaders of the Levites, with oversight of those who keep guard over the sanctuary." (Numbers 3:32, ESV)
5. Eleazar Played a Role in Distributing the Land
When the Israelites entered the Promised Land, Eleazar played a key role in the distribution of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel. He, along with Joshua, was entrusted with overseeing the division of land to ensure that it was allocated according to God's will.
"And Eleazar the priest said to them, 'The Lord has commanded through Moses that you give the cities of refuge.'" (Joshua 21:13, ESV)
6. Eleazar Married the Daughter of a Priest
Eleazar’s marriage to the daughter of a priest helped strengthen his connection to the priestly family. His wife was named one of the daughters of the priest Putiel, and their son, Phinehas, became an influential priest in his own right.
"Eleazar son of Aaron married one of the daughters of Putiel, and she bore him Phinehas." (Exodus 6:25, ESV)
7. Eleazar’s Son, Phinehas, Played a Major Role in Israel’s History
Eleazar’s son, Phinehas, was a zealous priest who helped stop Israel's moral decline by executing judgment on those who had sinned in the matter of Baal worship. Phinehas' faithfulness, inspired by his father Eleazar's example, made a lasting impact on Israel’s religious life.
"Phinehas the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, turned back my wrath from the Israelites by showing zeal among them." (Numbers 25:11, ESV)
8. Eleazar Was Present at the Death of Moses
Eleazar was one of the few men to be present at the death of Moses. As Moses’ death drew near, Eleazar’s role as a spiritual leader became even more critical. He was one of the witnesses when Moses imparted his authority to Joshua.
"Moses and Eleazar the priest were among those who went up to the mountain to witness the death of Moses." (Deuteronomy 34:9, ESV)
9. Eleazar’s Role in the Census of Israel
Eleazar played an essential role in the census of Israel, which was taken to determine the number of males able to serve in the army. He worked alongside Moses and others to complete the counting and ensure Israel’s military readiness.
"Eleazar the priest and Joshua son of Nun took the census of all the Israelites." (Numbers 26:63, ESV)
10. Eleazar’s Legacy as High Priest
Eleazar’s legacy continued through his descendants, particularly his son Phinehas. As the high priest, Eleazar’s faithfulness to God and his adherence to the religious laws established by Moses ensured that the priesthood remained pure and dedicated to God.
"Eleazar son of Aaron the priest had charge of the anointing oil and of the sweet incense." (Numbers 4:16, ESV)
Conclusion
Eleazar, the son of Aaron, was a key figure in the history of Israel. As a high priest, he faithfully carried out the tasks God had assigned to him, ensuring that Israel remained true to the Lord. From overseeing the tabernacle to his crucial role in distributing the Promised Land, Eleazar’s leadership helped shape the course of Israel’s spiritual and national history.
