We often think of the Mishkan, the Tabernacle, and its sacred objects, but right alongside their creation, the priestly garments were being made too, specifically for Aaron and his sons. According to Legends of the Jews, it was at this moment that God revealed Aaron's appointment as the Kohen Gadol, the High Priest. Imagine Moses hearing God's instruction: "Go and appoint a high priest." Naturally, Moses asked, "From which tribe?" And God answered, "Of the tribe of Levi."
Now, Moses must have been pleased to hear that the High Priest would come from his own tribe, the tribe of Levi. But his joy surely intensified, and perhaps became a little complicated, when God added, "Appoint your brother Aaron as High Priest."
Can you imagine the mix of emotions swirling within Moses? Pride in his brother, certainly. But also, perhaps a tinge of disappointment. Did Moses secretly harbor a desire to be High Priest himself? It's human nature, after all.
But here's where the story gets truly fascinating. God chose Aaron to reward him for his actions surrounding the Golden Calf incident. Remember that? When Moses descended from Mount Sinai and saw the Israelites worshipping a golden idol, fashioned by Aaron, he was understandably furious. Moses might have assumed Aaron was as bad as the rest of the people, indulging in idolatry.
But God knew better. God knew that Aaron's involvement in the creation of the calf was motivated by a desire to buy time, to delay the people until Moses returned. The text doesn't make it clear whether Aaron explained this to Moses at the time or not, but either way, God knew Aaron’s true intentions. As Legends of the Jews recounts, God even said to Aaron, "I am fully aware of thy motive, and, as truly as thou livest, I shall appoint thee as warden over the sacrifices that My children offer Me."
To ease Moses's feelings, God gave him the honor of appointing Aaron. This is a beautiful touch. God could have simply installed Aaron without Moses's involvement. But instead, God gave Moses the opportunity to demonstrate his humility, showing the people that he wasn't seeking the high office for himself. What a powerful lesson in leadership!
At God's command, Aaron and his sons were chosen as priests, not just for a limited time, but for all eternity. This wasn’t a temporary gig; Aaron and his descendants were invested with the priesthood forever. According to this telling from Legends of the Jews, immediately after the appointment, Moses got to work, diligently instructing them in all the intricate laws and rituals of the priesthood. It was a sacred responsibility, passed down through generations.
Think about that: a position born out of a potentially disastrous situation, redeemed by intention, and solidified by divine decree. It makes you wonder about the unseen motives behind our own actions and the enduring impact they might have. What seemingly small choice might ripple out into eternity?