Numbers 20:25

KJV

Take Aaron and Eleazar his son, and bring them up unto mount Hor:

KJV (with Strong's)

Take {H3947} Aaron {H175} and Eleazar {H499} his son {H1121}, and bring them up {H5927} unto mount {H2022} Hor {H2023}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Take Aharon and El'azar his son, bring them up to Mount Hor,

Berean Standard Bible

Take Aaron and his son Eleazar and bring them up Mount Hor.

American Standard Version

Take Aaron and Eleazar his son, and bring them up unto mount Hor;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 20:25 records a solemn and divinely ordained command given to Moses by God, instructing him to take his brother Aaron and Aaron's son Eleazar to Mount Hor. This pivotal instruction serves as the immediate prelude to Aaron's death and the ceremonial transfer of the high priestly office from Aaron to Eleazar. It signifies God's sovereign judgment on Aaron's prior disobedience at Meribah while simultaneously ensuring the sacred continuity of the Levitical priesthood, which was absolutely essential for maintaining Israel's covenant relationship and their ongoing worship of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 20:25 is situated at a profoundly critical juncture in the wilderness narrative, immediately following God's pronouncement of judgment upon Moses and Aaron for their disobedience at the waters of Meribah ([Numbers 20:1-13](/numbers/20-1-13 "Numbers 20:1-13 - The Waters of Meribah")). In that incident, despite being commanded to *speak* to the rock to bring forth water, Moses, in a moment of frustration and perhaps anger, struck it twice, and both he and Aaron failed to "sanctify" God in the eyes of the Israelites. Consequently, God declared that neither would enter the Promised Land ([Numbers 20:12](/numbers/20-12 "Numbers 20:12 - God's Judgment on Moses and Aaron")). This verse, therefore, initiates the solemn fulfillment of that judgment specifically for Aaron, setting the stage for his death and the subsequent transfer of his priestly garments and office to Eleazar in the verses that immediately follow ([Numbers 20:26-29](/numbers/20-26-29 "Numbers 20:26-29 - Aaron's Death and Eleazar's Succession")). It represents a significant, divinely orchestrated transition point, closing one chapter of leadership and opening another, all under God's meticulous providence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Numbers 20 occur late in Israel's forty-year wilderness wandering, as they approach the borders of Edom. Mount Hor, explicitly mentioned here, was a prominent and identifiable landmark near the border of Edom, making it a geographically significant and accessible location for this momentous act. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, mountains frequently served as sacred spaces for divine encounter, revelation, covenant ceremonies, and sometimes, profound acts of judgment or significant transitions. The High Priest, a central and indispensable figure in Israelite worship, held a unique and supremely sacred office, mediating between a holy God and His covenant people. The public transfer of the priestly garments from father to son was a deeply symbolic and ritualistic act, publicly signifying the legitimate transfer of divine authority and ensuring the continuity of the divinely established order of worship, sacrifice, and atonement. This transition underscored the paramount importance of an unbroken line of intercessors for the nation's spiritual well-being.
* **Key Themes:** Numbers 20:25 contributes significantly to several overarching theological and narrative themes woven throughout the book of Numbers and the broader Pentateuch. It powerfully illustrates **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, demonstrating with stark clarity that even highly esteemed leaders like Aaron are held rigorously accountable for their actions and are unequivocally subject to God's holy standards and decrees, as seen in [Numbers 20:12](/numbers/20-12 "Numbers 20:12 - God's Judgment"). This verse also highlights the crucial theme of the **Succession of the Priesthood**, ensuring the divinely ordained and hereditary continuity of the High Priestly office, a process meticulously detailed in [Numbers 20:26-28](/numbers/20-26-28 "Numbers 20:26-28 - Eleazar's Investiture"). This continuity was absolutely vital for the ongoing operation of the sacrificial system and the maintenance of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, as extensively detailed in the laws of [Leviticus](/leviticus/1 "The Book of Leviticus - Laws for Holy Living") and [Numbers](/numbers/1 "The Book of Numbers - Wilderness Wanderings"). Furthermore, Moses' unwavering **Obedience to God's Command**, even in the face of profound personal sorrow and the impending loss of his beloved brother, underscores the paramount importance of submitting to God's will, regardless of the difficulty or emotional cost ([Numbers 20:27](/numbers/20-27 "Numbers 20:27 - Moses' Obedience")). This theme of obedience is a recurring motif, starkly contrasting with the disobedience that ultimately led to Aaron's fate.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Take (Hebrew, לָקַח, _lâqach_):** This verb carries the fundamental sense of "to take," "to seize," or "to receive." In this context, it functions as a strong, direct imperative from God to Moses. It signifies a deliberate, authoritative, and solemn action, far beyond a mere suggestion. Moses is commanded to actively *bring* Aaron and Eleazar, indicating the gravity, divine necessity, and non-negotiable nature of the impending event. The command highlights God's active, sovereign role in orchestrating the conclusion of Aaron's earthly ministry and the inauguration of Eleazar's.
* **Eleazar (Hebrew, אֶלְעָזָר, _ʼElʻâzâr_):** This name is a compound of two Hebrew words: "El" (God) and "azar" (to help). Thus, Eleazar literally means "God is helper" or "God has helped." The inclusion of Eleazar in this divine command is highly significant, as he is not merely an observer but the designated successor to the high priestly office. His name, "God is helper," foreshadows God's continued provision for His people through the priesthood, even as one era concludes and another begins. It underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant promises by ensuring the continuity of the essential mediatorial role.
* **Mount Hor (Hebrew, הֹר, _Hôr_):** The name "Hor" itself means "mountain" or "hill" (related to the general Hebrew word for mountain, _har_). The specific mention of "Mount Hor" here imbues it with profound theological and historical significance. It is not merely a geographical landmark but the divinely appointed, sacred place where the first High Priest of Israel would conclude his earthly service, undergo a symbolic divestiture of his office, and die. This location marks a monumental and somber transition in Israel's spiritual history, serving as a public testament to God's judgment and His meticulous planning for the future of His covenant people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Take Aaron and Eleazar his son":** This opening phrase precisely identifies the key individuals involved in this divine directive. Aaron, as the High Priest, is the primary subject, whose earthly ministry is about to conclude. Eleazar, his son, is included as the designated successor, emphasizing the theme of continuity and the hereditary nature of the Aaronic priesthood. The command to "take" them implies a solemn procession and a controlled, deliberate act, underscoring the gravity and sacredness of the moment, not a casual journey.
* **"and bring them up":** This phrase denotes an ascent, a physical movement upwards to a higher elevation. In biblical narratives, going "up" to a mountain often signifies approaching God's presence, receiving revelation, engaging in acts of worship, or facing divine judgment. Here, it implies a sacred, final journey to a divinely appointed place, where a significant spiritual and administrative transition will occur. The ascent itself is an integral part of the ritual and solemnity of the event, elevating the act beyond the mundane.
* **"unto mount Hor":** This specifies the precise, divinely chosen location for the command's fulfillment. Mount Hor is not merely a geographical point but a consecrated stage for a profound theological drama. It is the place of Aaron's death, the public and ritualistic transfer of the high priestly office, and a stark, enduring reminder of the consequences of disobedience, even for God's most chosen and esteemed leaders. Its specific designation underscores God's meticulous planning, absolute sovereignty over life and death, and His unwavering commitment to the continuation of His sacred institutions.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 20:25 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound significance. The most prominent is **Foreshadowing**, as this terse, direct command immediately precedes and dramatically sets the stage for Aaron's death and the transfer of the priesthood described in the very next verses. The very act of "bringing them up unto Mount Hor" is pregnant with the impending solemn and pivotal event. There is also strong **Symbolism** present; Mount Hor itself becomes a potent symbol of divine judgment, transition, and sacred space, where the old order (Aaron's priesthood) reverently gives way to the new (Eleazar's priesthood). The physical ascent "up" to the mountain can be seen as symbolic of a final, sacred journey towards a divinely ordained appointment, elevating the act beyond mere travel. Furthermore, the imperative verbs "Take" and "bring them up" exemplify **Divine Command**, highlighting God's absolute authority and the non-negotiable nature of His will, even when it involves difficult or sorrowful circumstances. This terse command, notably devoid of emotional elaboration, underscores the unyielding nature of God's justice and His sovereign control over the lives and ministries of His servants.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 20:25 is deeply significant for understanding the immutable nature of God's holiness, the pervasive reality of sin, and the divine ordering of spiritual authority within His covenant community. It reveals with stark clarity that God's standards are absolute, and disobedience, even from His most esteemed leaders, carries severe and inevitable consequences. Aaron's death, explicitly ordained by God, underscores the profound seriousness of human sin and the undeniable truth that no one, regardless of their position, privilege, or past service, is exempt from God's righteous judgment. Yet, even in this moment of judgment, God simultaneously demonstrates His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant and His people by meticulously ensuring the continuity of the priesthood through Eleazar. This act, while somber, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate need for a perfect, sinless High Priest who would not be subject to sin or death, capable of offering a permanent and fully efficacious atonement for humanity.

* [Numbers 27:12-14](/numbers/27-12-14 "Numbers 27:12-14 - Moses' Similar Fate Foretold")
* [Deuteronomy 32:49-50](/deuteronomy/32-49-50 "Deuteronomy 32:49-50 - Aaron's Death Recalled by Moses")
* [Hebrews 7:23-24](/hebrews/7-23-24 "Hebrews 7:23-24 - The Impermanence of the Levitical Priesthood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 20:25 serves as a profound and sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin, even seemingly minor acts of disobedience, especially for those entrusted with positions of spiritual leadership and public representation of God. Aaron, a beloved and faithful servant who had ministered for decades, faced the ultimate earthly consequence for a moment of impatience and failure to properly sanctify God before the people. This narrative should prompt deep introspection for all believers, particularly those entrusted with spiritual authority, to walk in profound humility, unwavering obedience, and vigilant reverence, recognizing the immense responsibility that comes with representing a holy God. Furthermore, the seamless and divinely orchestrated transition of the priesthood from Aaron to Eleazar highlights God's sovereign providence and His unwavering commitment to ensuring the continuity of His redemptive purposes, even through human frailty, failure, and the inevitable changes of leadership. We are called to trust implicitly in God's perfect plan, knowing that He raises up and sets down leaders according to His wise and eternal will, always advancing His kingdom. This verse also encourages us to cultivate a spirit of non-attachment to positions, faithfully stewarding our current callings while actively preparing for and empowering the next generation for service, recognizing that God's work transcends any single individual.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Aaron's consequence for disobedience at Meribah challenge my understanding of God's absolute holiness and the pervasive seriousness of sin, even in seemingly small acts?**
* **What profound lessons does the divine orchestration of Aaron's death and Eleazar's succession teach me about God's sovereignty over life, death, and the crucial transitions in leadership within His church?**
* **In what specific ways might I, or leaders I observe, be tempted to "strike the rock" instead of speaking to it, thereby failing to properly sanctify God or misrepresenting His character in the eyes of others?**
* **How can I better prepare for and graciously embrace transitions in leadership—both my own and those around me—trusting implicitly in God's faithful provision for the future of His work?**

### FAQ
**Why was Aaron forbidden to enter the Promised Land, and how does this verse relate to that judgment?**

Answer: Aaron, along with Moses, was forbidden to enter the Promised Land due to their disobedience at the waters of Meribah ([Numbers 20:1-13](/numbers/20-1-13 "Numbers 20:1-13 - The Waters of Meribah")). God had commanded Moses to *speak* to the rock to bring forth water, but instead, Moses, in frustration and anger, *struck* the rock twice. Both Moses and Aaron were held accountable for this act, as they failed to "sanctify" God in the eyes of the Israelites, implying a lack of trust in God's specific command or a misrepresentation of His holiness and power before the people ([Numbers 20:12](/numbers/20-12 "Numbers 20:12 - God's Judgment on Moses and Aaron")). Numbers 20:25 is the direct divine command that initiates the fulfillment of this judgment specifically for Aaron, instructing Moses to take him to Mount Hor where he would die and his priestly office would be transferred to his son, Eleazar. It underscores that even God's most chosen and esteemed leaders are held to account for their actions, and disobedience, particularly in public representation of God, has severe consequences.

**What was the significance of Mount Hor as the location for Aaron's death and the transfer of the priesthood?**

Answer: Mount Hor was a prominent mountain on the border of Edom, making it a recognizable and accessible location for this solemn event for the entire Israelite community. Its significance lies not just in its geography but in its divine appointment. Mountains in the Bible often serve as places of profound divine encounter, revelation, or judgment. For Aaron, Mount Hor became the "mountain of transition"—the sacred place where his earthly ministry as High Priest concluded, where he faced the consequence of his disobedience, and where the sacred office was publicly and ritually transferred to his son, Eleazar, in full view of the people ([Numbers 20:26-28](/numbers/20-26-28 "Numbers 20:26-28 - Eleazar's Investiture")). This public act on a high place ensured the legitimacy and divine continuity of the priesthood in the eyes of the entire Israelite community, reinforcing God's orderly providence and His faithfulness to His covenant, even in moments of judgment and significant change.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 20:25, with its solemn account of Aaron's death and the divinely orchestrated transfer of the high priesthood, profoundly foreshadows the ultimate and perfect High Priesthood of Jesus Christ. Aaron, as the first High Priest of Israel, served as a type, a temporary mediator whose ministry was inherently limited by his own sin and mortality. His death on Mount Hor, a direct consequence of his disobedience, highlights the inherent flaw and impermanence of the Levitical priesthood, which necessitated a continuous succession of priests because "death prevented them from continuing in office" ([Hebrews 7:23](/hebrews/7-23 "Hebrews 7:23 - Impermanence of Levitical Priesthood")). In stark and glorious contrast, Jesus Christ is our eternal and sinless High Priest, who "holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever" ([Hebrews 7:24](/hebrews/7-24 "Hebrews 7:24 - Christ's Permanent Priesthood")). Unlike Aaron, who had to offer sacrifices for his own sins before he could offer for the people ([Leviticus 9:7](/leviticus/9-7 "Leviticus 9:7 - Aaron's First Sacrifices")), Jesus, being "holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens," had no need to offer sacrifices for himself ([Hebrews 7:26](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26 - Christ's Sinless Nature")). Aaron's death on Mount Hor, a place of judgment and transition, points forward to Christ's ultimate, once-for-all sacrifice on Calvary, where He, the perfect Lamb of God, offered Himself "once for all" ([Hebrews 7:27](/hebrews/7-27 "Hebrews 7:27 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice")) to atone for the sins of humanity, thereby establishing a new and far better covenant ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - A Better Covenant")). Thus, Aaron's passing on Mount Hor, while a moment of divine judgment and a necessary transition for Israel, ultimately serves to magnify the surpassing glory, eternal efficacy, and perfect sufficiency of Christ's high priestly ministry.

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

Numbers 33:38

And Aaron the priest went up into mount Hor at the commandment of the LORD, and died there, in the fortieth year after the children of Israel were come out of the land of Egypt, in the first [day] of the fifth month.

Numbers 33:39

And Aaron [was] an hundred and twenty and three years old when he died in mount Hor.