Exodus 6:23

KJV

And Aaron took him Elisheba, daughter of Amminadab, sister of Naashon, to wife; and she bare him Nadab, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Aaron {H175} took {H3947} him Elisheba {H472}, daughter {H1323} of Amminadab {H5992}, sister {H269} of Naashon {H5177}, to wife {H802}; and she bare {H3205} him Nadab {H5070}, and Abihu {H30}, Eleazar {H499}, and Ithamar {H385}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Aharon married Elisheva daughter of 'Amminadav and sister of Nachshon, and she bore him Nadav, Avihu, El'azar and Itamar.

Berean Standard Bible

And Aaron married Elisheba, the daughter of Amminadab and sister of Nahshon, and she bore him Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar.

American Standard Version

And Aaron took him Elisheba, the daughter of Amminadab, the sister of Nahshon, to wife; and she bare him Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 6:23 meticulously records the marriage of Aaron, Israel's divinely appointed first High Priest, to Elisheba, daughter of Amminadab and sister of Naashon, and the subsequent birth of their four sons: Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. This genealogical entry is far from a mere historical footnote; it is foundational to the establishment of the Levitical priesthood, crucial for Israel's worship and covenant relationship with God, and subtly foreshadows the broader redemptive plan, particularly through Elisheba's prominent lineage which connects the priestly line to the future royal and messianic lines.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 6:23 is nestled within a significant genealogical section (Exodus 6:14-27) that serves to authenticate the divine commission of Moses and Aaron. Prior to this, Moses has expressed his inadequacy and the Israelites' despair (Exodus 6:12). God responds by reaffirming His covenant promises (Exodus 6:2-8) and reiterating His command to Pharaoh. To underscore the authority and legitimacy of His chosen leaders, God interjects these detailed family records. The genealogies of Reuben, Simeon, and Levi establish the tribal bona fides of Moses and Aaron, with verse 23 specifically focusing on Aaron's immediate family, thereby laying the groundwork for the divinely ordained priesthood that will be central to Israel's identity and worship in the wilderness and beyond. This section acts as a divine credential, assuring both Moses and the Israelites of the solid foundation upon which their leadership and future religious structure are built.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern societies, genealogies were not just records of ancestry; they were vital for establishing identity, social status, inheritance rights, and legitimacy for leadership roles. For the Israelites, a people being formed into a nation under God's covenant, the meticulous recording of lineages was paramount. The mention of Elisheba's family, specifically her brother Naashon, is particularly significant. Naashon was a prominent figure, a prince of the tribe of Judah (as seen later in [Numbers 1:7](/numbers/1-7 "Naashon, Prince of Judah")), which would become the royal tribe. This intermarriage between the priestly line (Aaron) and the future royal line (Judah) would have been understood by the original audience as a strategic and divinely orchestrated union, hinting at a broader, unified purpose for the nation's spiritual and civil leadership. The naming of children also held deep cultural significance, often reflecting hopes, circumstances, or theological truths.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes in Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Election and Appointment**, showing God's specific choice of Aaron and his descendants for the priesthood, a critical institution for Israel's covenant relationship. Secondly, it reinforces the theme of **Covenant Faithfulness**, as God continues to work through specific individuals and families to fulfill His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, particularly concerning the formation of a holy nation. Thirdly, the genealogical detail, especially the connection to Naashon, subtly introduces the theme of **Messianic Lineage**, foreshadowing the future King from Judah who would also serve as the ultimate High Priest. This prefigures the unified roles of the Messiah, as seen in the later genealogies of [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "The Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23-38 "The Genealogy of Jesus Christ"). Finally, the mention of Aaron's sons, particularly Nadab and Abihu, implicitly sets the stage for the theme of **Holiness and Obedience in Worship**, which becomes critically important in the subsequent books of the Pentateuch, especially [Leviticus 10](/leviticus/10 "Nadab and Abihu's Unholy Fire").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Exodus 6:23 is a concise yet profoundly significant genealogical entry, detailing the foundational family unit from which Israel's priesthood would emerge. It underscores God's meticulous design in establishing the spiritual leadership of His people.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Aaron (Hebrew, _ʼAhărôwn'_):** Of uncertain derivation, this name identifies the central figure of this verse, Moses' older brother, who is divinely designated to be the first High Priest of Israel. His leadership role, alongside Moses, is crucial for the Exodus and the establishment of the covenant.
* **took (Hebrew, _lâqach'_):** This primitive root means "to take" in a wide variety of applications. In this context, it specifically refers to Aaron "taking" Elisheba "to wife," signifying the act of marriage and the establishment of a household. This "taking" is not merely an acquisition but the formation of a covenantal union, foundational for the continuation of a divinely appointed lineage.
* **daughter (Hebrew, _bath'_):** From the root meaning "to build," this term denotes a female offspring. Its inclusion here is critical as it establishes Elisheba's specific lineage, connecting Aaron's family to Amminadab and, more significantly, to Naashon, thereby linking the priestly line to the tribe of Judah. The term "daughter" here signifies the transmission of lineage and identity through the female line in this specific context.
* **bare (Hebrew, _yâlad'_):** A primitive root meaning "to bear young" or "to beget." Here, it describes Elisheba's act of giving birth to her four sons. This verb emphasizes the generative aspect of the marriage, directly leading to the establishment of the priestly family line that would serve Israel for generations.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Aaron took him Elisheba, daughter of Amminadab, sister of Naashon, to wife;"** This clause establishes the marriage of Aaron, the future High Priest, to Elisheba. The meticulous detail of Elisheba's parentage—daughter of Amminadab and sister of Naashon—is highly significant. While Amminadab is less prominent, Naashon is a key figure, a prince of the tribe of Judah, which is the royal tribe from which King David and ultimately the Messiah would descend. This connection is not incidental; it subtly links the priestly line of Aaron with the future royal and messianic line of Judah, hinting at God's unified plan for leadership and redemption.
* **"and she bare him Nadab, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar."** This second clause records the birth of Aaron and Elisheba's four sons. These sons are not just personal heirs but are destined for sacred service, as they would be consecrated alongside their father into the priesthood (as detailed in [Exodus 28:1](/exodus/28-1 "The Consecration of Aaron and His Sons")). The inclusion of all four names sets the stage for their future roles, both in their service and, tragically for Nadab and Abihu, in their disobedience and subsequent judgment (recorded in [Leviticus 10:1-2](/leviticus/10-1-2 "Nadab and Abihu's Unholy Fire")). Eleazar and Ithamar would continue the priestly line, ensuring its perpetuation.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Exodus 6:23 is **Genealogy**, which serves a crucial function beyond mere historical record. Genealogies in biblical texts are a form of **Narrative Compression**, conveying significant information about lineage, legitimacy, and divine purpose in a concise manner. This specific entry acts as a **Foreshadowing**, subtly hinting at the future intertwining of priestly and royal lines that will culminate in the Messiah. The inclusion of Naashon's name, a figure from the royal tribe, creates a **Symbolic Linkage** between the two divinely ordained leadership structures. Furthermore, the naming of all four sons, even those who would later fall, sets up a **Dramatic Irony** for the discerning reader familiar with later biblical narratives, highlighting the themes of obedience, consequence, and the sanctity of divine service.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 6:23, though a brief genealogical note, is replete with theological significance. It underscores God's meticulous and sovereign planning in establishing the foundational structures for His covenant people. The detailed lineage, particularly Elisheba's connection to the tribe of Judah through Naashon, reveals God's intentionality in weaving together the priestly and royal lines, foreshadowing the unified office of the Messiah. This verse demonstrates that God's redemptive plan is not haphazard but is carefully orchestrated through specific individuals and families, ensuring the legitimacy and divine appointment of those who would lead Israel in worship and governance. It highlights the importance of spiritual lineage and the profound impact of family connections within God's unfolding narrative of salvation.

* [Numbers 3:2-4](/numbers/3-2-4 "The Sons of Aaron and Their Priestly Roles"): This passage identifies Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar as the sons of Aaron, consecrated to minister in the priest's office, and notes the death of Nadab and Abihu.
* [Matthew 1:4](/matthew/1-4 "Naashon in the Genealogy of Jesus"): Naashon, Elisheba's brother, is explicitly listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, affirming the link between the priestly line (through marriage) and the royal/messianic line.
* [Hebrews 7:11-17](/hebrews/7-11-17 "The Priesthood of Melchizedek vs. Aaron"): While not directly mentioning Exodus 6:23, this passage discusses the shift from the Levitical priesthood to the superior priesthood of Christ, highlighting how the Aaronic line was a temporary foreshadowing of a greater, eternal High Priest.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 6:23, while seemingly a dry genealogical record, invites us to marvel at the profound intentionality and foresight of God in His redemptive plan. It reminds us that even the seemingly small details in Scripture are purposeful, often laying crucial groundwork for major theological truths and prophetic fulfillments. For believers today, this verse underscores that God works through specific people, families, and lineages to accomplish His sovereign will, often in ways that are not immediately apparent but become profoundly significant over time. It encourages us to trust in God's meticulous planning, even when His methods seem circuitous or His timing delayed. Furthermore, the subsequent fates of Aaron's sons serve as a solemn reminder of the weight of sacred calling and the critical importance of obedience and reverence in service to God, a principle that remains timeless for all who claim to follow Him. Our spiritual legacy, like Aaron's, is not merely about what we do, but how faithfully we steward the callings and relationships God places in our lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's meticulous attention to genealogical detail in Exodus 6:23 challenge my perspective on "insignificant" details in my own life or in God's broader plan?**
* **In what ways does this verse, by linking the priestly and royal lines, encourage me to see the interconnectedness of God's purposes, even when they seem disparate?**
* **Considering the later fates of Nadab and Abihu, what does this verse teach me about the solemnity of serving God and the importance of obedience in worship?**

### FAQ

**Why is this specific genealogy included in the narrative of the Exodus?**

Answer: The inclusion of Aaron's genealogy, particularly his marriage and the birth of his sons in [Exodus 6:23](/exodus/6-23 "Exodus 6:23 - Aaron's Family"), serves several crucial purposes. It establishes the legitimacy and divine appointment of the Levitical priesthood, which was central to Israel's covenant relationship with God and the future Tabernacle worship. It also underscores the authority of Moses and Aaron as divinely chosen leaders, reassuring the Israelites of God's faithfulness to His promises despite their current bondage. Furthermore, the connection to Naashon of the tribe of Judah subtly links the priestly line with the future royal line, pointing to God's comprehensive plan for His people.

**What is the significance of Elisheba's family connection to Naashon?**

Answer: Elisheba's brother, Naashon, was a prominent leader from the tribe of Judah, as later confirmed in [Numbers 1:7](/numbers/1-7 "Naashon, Prince of Judah"). This connection is highly significant because the tribe of Judah was prophesied to be the royal tribe from which kings would come ([Genesis 49:10](/genesis/49-10 "Jacob's Prophecy for Judah")). Naashon is explicitly listed in the genealogies of King David and Jesus Christ ([Matthew 1:4](/matthew/1-4 "Naashon in Matthew's Genealogy") and [Luke 3:32](/luke/3-32 "Naashon in Luke's Genealogy")). Therefore, Aaron's marriage to Elisheba created a familial link between the divinely appointed priestly line and the future messianic royal line, subtly foreshadowing the ultimate High Priest and King, Jesus Christ.

**What happened to Aaron's four sons mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: Aaron's four sons were Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. All four were consecrated to serve as priests alongside their father ([Exodus 28:1](/exodus/28-1 "Consecration of Aaron and His Sons")). However, Nadab and Abihu tragically died early in their priestly service when they offered "strange fire" before the Lord, an act of disobedience that violated God's commands regarding worship ([Leviticus 10:1-2](/leviticus/10-1-2 "Nadab and Abihu's Unholy Fire")). Eleazar and Ithamar continued the priestly line. Eleazar succeeded Aaron as High Priest ([Numbers 20:28](/numbers/20-28 "Eleazar Succeeds Aaron")), and their descendants continued to serve in the Tabernacle and Temple throughout Israel's history ([Numbers 3:2-4](/numbers/3-2-4 "The Sons of Aaron in Numbers 3")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 6:23, while detailing the establishment of the earthly Aaronic priesthood, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The marriage of Aaron to Elisheba, sister of Naashon from the tribe of Judah, subtly yet profoundly connects the priestly line with the royal line from which the Messiah would come. Jesus, descending from Judah through David ([Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")), fulfills both the priestly and kingly offices, not according to the Levitical order, but as a High Priest forever "after the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 7:17](/hebrews/7-17 "Jesus, a Priest Forever After the Order of Melchizedek")). He is the perfect, sinless High Priest who offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, establishing a new and better covenant ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Christ's Superior Sacrifice")), and simultaneously reigns as the King of Kings ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "King of Kings and Lord of Lords")), thereby embodying the unified purpose of God's redemptive plan foreshadowed in this seemingly simple genealogical record. Through Christ, the temporary and imperfect Aaronic priesthood is superseded by an eternal and perfect one, and the promise of a King from Judah finds its glorious realization.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ruth 4:19

And Hezron begat Ram, and Ram begat Amminadab,

Ruth 4:20

And Amminadab begat Nahshon, and Nahshon begat Salmon,

Numbers 2:3

¶ And on the east side toward the rising of the sun shall they of the standard of the camp of Judah pitch throughout their armies: and Nahshon the son of Amminadab [shall be] captain of the children of Judah.

1 Chronicles 2:10

And Ram begat Amminadab; and Amminadab begat Nahshon, prince of the children of Judah;

Numbers 1:7

Of Judah; Nahshon the son of Amminadab.

1 Chronicles 6:3

And the children of Amram; Aaron, and Moses, and Miriam. The sons also of Aaron; Nadab, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.

Matthew 1:4

And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson begat Salmon;