Exodus 32:22

In Exodus 32:22, we hear Aaron's defense to Moses after the catastrophic incident of the Golden Calf. Moses, having just descended from Mount Sinai, confronts his brother about the widespread idolatry and moral corruption among the Israelites. Aaron attempts to deflect blame by appealing to Moses' presumed understanding of the people's inherent wickedness, stating, "Let not the anger of my lord wax hot: thou knowest the people, that they [are set] on mischief." This verse highlights Aaron's immediate reaction: an attempt to minimize his own culpability by blaming the collective character of the Israelites.

Context

This verse is crucial in the narrative of the Golden Calf. While Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the Law from God (Exodus 24:12), the Israelites grew impatient with his prolonged absence. They pressured Aaron to "make us gods, which shall go before us" (Exodus 32:1). Aaron, instead of resisting firmly, complied, fashioning a golden calf and proclaiming a feast to the LORD (Exodus 32:4). Upon his return, Moses' righteous anger led him to break the tablets of the Law (Exodus 32:19) and then confront Aaron directly. Aaron's response in this verse is a classic example of shifting responsibility, portraying himself as a victim of the people's uncontrollable tendencies.

Key Themes

• Blame Shifting and Accountability: Aaron's primary aim here is to avoid personal responsibility for his actions. He appeals to Moses' presumed shared understanding of the people's character as an excuse for his own failure to lead them in righteousness. This narrative serves as a stark reminder of the importance of taking personal responsibility, especially for those in leadership.
• Human Inclination to Sin: Although used as an excuse, Aaron's statement that the people "are set on mischief" (or 'evil') points to the inherent human propensity towards sin and rebellion against God, a theme echoed throughout Scripture (Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3:23).
• Leadership Failure: Aaron, as Moses' appointed assistant and temporary leader, succumbed to peer pressure rather than upholding God's commands. His excuse highlights a profound failure in his leadership role during Moses' absence.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "are set on mischief" translates from the Hebrew word ra (רַע), which carries a stronger connotation than mere "mischief." It often refers to deep-seated evil, wickedness, or trouble. Aaron is suggesting that the people have an inherent, active inclination towards wrongdoing, making them difficult to control. This implies a fixed disposition towards rebellion and idolatry rather than a momentary lapse.

Practical Application

Exodus 32:22 offers several timeless lessons:

• Embrace Accountability: We are called to take ownership of our choices and actions, rather than deflecting blame onto circumstances or others. True integrity involves acknowledging our part in situations, even when others are also at fault.
• Beware of Peer Pressure: Aaron's compliance under pressure serves as a warning against succumbing to the desires of the crowd, especially when those desires contradict God's will. Leaders, in particular, must stand firm in their convictions.
• Understand the Human Heart: While we should not use it as an excuse for sin, recognizing the human heart's inclination towards "mischief" or evil (as Aaron described it) is vital for understanding why people behave the way they do and why God's grace and transformative power are so essential (Ezekiel 36:26).