Aaron • Aaron son of Amram • the first High Priest
Aaron the Priest
Biblical EraAaron, the brother of Moses, was the first High Priest. He loved peace and pursued peace, loved his fellow creatures and drew them near to Torah. He was among the central leaders of the Exodus from Egypt and the service of the Tabernacle.
Biography
Aaron, the brother of Moses, was the first High Priest. He loved peace and pursued peace, loved his fellow creatures and drew them near to Torah. He was among the central leaders of the Exodus from Egypt and the service of the Tabernacle.
Life Story
Childhood
He was born in Egypt to Amram and Jochebed, three years before Moses.
Teachers
He learned from his brother Moses and from his father Amram.
Students
His sons—Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.
Family
He married Elisheba, daughter of Amminadab.
Key Events
Aaron’s speaking before Pharaoh, the Ten Plagues, the sin of the Golden Calf, and the dedication of the Tabernacle.
Miracles
Aaron’s staff, which turned into a serpent and swallowed the staffs of the Egyptians, and Aaron’s staff, which blossomed in the episode of Korah and his congregation.
Influence
He established the priestly service in the Tabernacle, which was passed down to his descendants for generations.
Death
He ascended Mount Hor together with Moses and his son Eleazar, and passed away there before the eyes of the entire congregation.
His Way and Views
Torah Study
He transmitted the Torah he received from Moses to his sons and to the generations that followed.
Halacha
He established the order of the priestly service and the sacrificial rites.
Faith
He possessed complete faith; despite the sin of the Golden Calf, he repented.
Ethics
He pursued peace between one person and another.
Customs
The Priestly Blessing was given to him and to his descendants.
Character
He loved all people, was patient, and drew others near.
Public Role
He was a leader who loved every member of Israel.
Famous Quotes
"Love peace and pursue peace, love your fellow creatures and draw them near to Torah."
Famous Stories
When Aaron saw two people in conflict, he would go to one of them and say that the other was seeking reconciliation; in this way, he would bring peace between them.
Students
Teachers
Grave Site
Timeline
Birth
The Exodus from Egypt
Passing on Mount Hor