TRV
See on the biblical-era map
Study This Verse
Commentary on Numbers 20 verses 22–29
The chapter began with the funeral of Miriam, and it ends with the funeral of her brother Aaron. When death comes into a family, it often strikes double. Israel had not improved the former affliction they were under, by the death of the prophetess, and therefore, soon after, God took away their priest, to try if they would lay that to heart. This happened at the very next stage, when they removed to Mount Hor, fetching a compass round the Edomites' country, leaving it on their left hand. Wherever we go, death attends us, and the graves are ready for us.
I. God bids Aaron die, Num 20:24. God takes Moses and Aaron aside, and tells them, Aaron shall be gathered to his people. These two dear brothers are told that they must part. Aaron the elder must die first, but Moses is not likely to be long after him; so that it is but for a while, a little while, that they are parted. 1. There is something of displeasure in these orders. Aaron must not enter Canaan, because he had failed in his duty at the waters of strife. The mention of this, no doubt, went to the heart of Moses, who knew himself, perhaps, at that time, to be the guiltier of the two. 2. There is much of mercy in them. Aaron, though he dies for his transgression, is not put to death as a malefactor, by a plague, or fire from heaven, but dies with ease and in honour. He is not cut off from his people, as the expression usually is concerning those that die by the hand of divine justice, but he is gathered to his people, as one that died in the arms of divine grace. 3. There is much of type and significancy in them. Aaron must not enter Canaan, to show that the Levitical priesthood could make nothing perfect: that must be done by the bringing in of a better hope. Those priests could not continue by reason of sin and death, but the priesthood of Christ, being undefiled, is unchangeable, and to this, which abides for ever, Aaron must resign all his honour, Heb 7:23-25.
II. Aaron submits, and dies in the method and manner appointed, and, for aught that appears, with as much cheerfulness as if he had been going to bed.
1.He puts on his holy garments to take his leave of them, and goes up with his brother and son to the top of Mount Hor, and probably some of the elders of Israel with him, Num 20:27. They went up in the sight of all the congregation, who, it is likely, were told on what errand they went up; by this solemn procession Aaron lets Israel know that he is neither afraid nor ashamed to die, but, when the bridegroom comes, can trim his lamp and go forth to meet him. His going up the hill to die signified that the death of saints (and Aaron is called the saint of the Lord) is their ascension; they rather go up than go down to death.
2.Moses, whose hands had first clothed Aaron with his priestly garments, now strips him of them; for, in reverence to the priesthood, it was not fit that he should die in them. Note, Death will strip us; naked we came into the world, and naked we must go out. We shall see little reason to be proud of our clothes, our ornaments, or marks of honour, if we consider how soon death will strip us of our glory, divest us of all our offices and honours, and take the crown off from our head.
3.Moses immediately puts the priestly garments upon Eleazar his son, clothes him with his father's robe, and strengthens him with his girdle, Isa 22:21. Now, (1.) This was a great comfort to Moses, by whose hand the law of the priesthood was given to see that it should be kept up in a succession, and that a lamp was ordained for the anointed, which should not be extinguished by death itself. This was a happy earnest and indication to the church of the care God would take that as one generation of ministers and Christians (spiritual priests) passes away another generation should come up instead of it. (2.) It was a great satisfaction to Aaron to see his son, who was dear to him, thus preferred, and his office, which was dearer, thus preserved and secured, and especially to see in this a figure of Christ's everlasting priesthood, in which alone his would be perpetuated. Now, Lord, might Aaron say, let thy servant depart in peace, for my eyes have seen thy salvation. (3.) It was a great kindness to the people. The installing of Eleazar before Aaron was dead would prevent those who bore ill-will to Aaron's family from attempting to set up another upon his death, in competition with his son. What could they do when the matter was already settled? It would likewise encourage those among them that feared God, and be a token for good to them, that he would not leave them, nor suffer his faithfulness to fail.
4.Aaron died there. Quickly after he was stripped of his priestly garments, he laid himself down and died contentedly; for a good man would desire, if it were the will of God, not to outlive his usefulness. Why should we covet to continue any longer in this world than while we may do God and our generation some service in it?
5.Moses and Eleazar, with those that attended them, buried Aaron where he died, as appears by Deu 10:6, and then came down from the mount. And now, when they came down, and had left Aaron behind, it might be proper for them to think that he had rather gone up to the better world and had left them behind.
6.All the congregation mourned for Aaron thirty days, Num 20:29. Though the loss was well made up in Eleazar, who, being in the prime of life, was fitter from public service that Aaron would have been if he had lived, yet it was a debt owing to their deceased high priest to mourn for him. While he lived, they were murmuring at him upon all occasions, but now that he was dead they mourned for him. Thus many are taught to lament the loss of those mercies which they would not learn to be thankful for the enjoyment of. Many good men have had more honour done to their memories than ever they had to their persons, witness those that were persecuted while they lived, but when they were dead had their sepulchres garnished.
Continue studying Numbers 20:27 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
SUMMARY
Numbers 20:27 chronicles a solemn and pivotal moment in the wilderness journey of Israel, detailing Moses' immediate and public obedience to the LORD's command regarding the impending death of his brother, Aaron. This verse serves as the narrative prelude to the transfer of the high priestly office from Aaron to his son Eleazar on Mount Hor, powerfully underscoring divine sovereignty, the consequences of disobedience, and the essential continuity of the priesthood, all enacted in the full view of the entire Israelite congregation.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Numbers 20:27 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound meaning. The verse functions as a powerful Narrative Fulfillment, directly responding to and executing the divine command given in the preceding verses (Numbers 20:23-26), thereby demonstrating the immediate and complete obedience of Moses. There is also an element of Foreshadowing, as the ascent to Mount Hor explicitly anticipates Aaron's death and the subsequent transfer of the high priestly office to Eleazar, which is detailed in the very next verses. The phrase "did as the LORD commanded" serves as a form of Emphasis through its repetition of a key theme throughout the Pentateuch, highlighting the paramount importance of obedience in the covenant relationship between God and His people. Furthermore, the setting of "mount Hor" can be seen as Symbolism, representing not just a physical location but a sacred space where divine will, judgment, and the continuity of God's covenant structures are enacted publicly and decisively.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 20:27 is rich with theological significance, serving as a powerful testament to God's absolute sovereignty, His righteous judgment, and His meticulous ordering of His covenant people. It underscores that even the most revered leaders are accountable to God and not exempt from the consequences of disobedience, as seen in Aaron's fate. Yet, in His judgment, God also demonstrates His faithfulness by orchestrating a seamless transition of the high priesthood, ensuring the continuity of the sacred office essential for Israel's worship and atonement. Moses' immediate obedience, even in sorrow, exemplifies the ideal response to divine command, highlighting that true faith involves submission to God's will regardless of personal cost or understanding. This event publicly reinforces the divine authority behind the priesthood and the necessity of its proper succession for the ongoing spiritual life of the nation.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 20:27 offers profound lessons for believers today, primarily centered on the nature of obedience, accountability, and trusting God's sovereign plan. Moses' immediate and public obedience to a difficult command—leading his brother to his death—challenges us to consider our own willingness to submit to God's will, especially when it involves personal sacrifice, sorrow, or a path we do not understand. It reminds us that true faith is demonstrated not just in easy affirmations but in costly, unwavering action, even when the divine command seems counter-intuitive or personally painful. Furthermore, the public nature of this event underscores the principle of accountability, particularly for those in leadership. God's dealings with His leaders are often transparent, serving as a powerful witness and lesson for the entire community about the gravity of spiritual responsibility. In moments of transition, loss, or difficult change within our own lives or communities, this passage encourages us to trust in God's overarching plan for continuity and purpose, even when it involves the passing of old orders or beloved figures, knowing that His divine order will prevail.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Aaron not permitted to enter the Promised Land?
Answer: Aaron, along with Moses, was barred from entering the Promised Land due to an act of disobedience at the waters of Meribah, as recorded in Numbers 20:12. God had commanded Moses to speak to the rock to bring forth water for the thirsty Israelites. However, in a moment of frustration and anger, Moses struck the rock twice with his staff, seemingly acting out of his own impatience and failing to fully trust and honor God's specific instruction. God declared that because they "did not trust in Me enough to honor Me as holy in the sight of the Israelites," they would not lead the congregation into the land He had given them. This highlights the severe consequences of disobedience, particularly for those in positions of leadership who are called to perfectly represent God's holiness and faithfulness.
What was the significance of transferring Aaron's garments to Eleazar?
Answer: The transfer of Aaron's priestly garments to his son Eleazar, as detailed in Numbers 20:28, was a profoundly significant ritual. The high priestly garments were not merely clothing but sacred vestments imbued with symbolic meaning, representing the authority, holiness, and mediatorial role of the high priest. By transferring these garments, the high priestly office, with all its responsibilities and divine appointment, was officially passed from Aaron to Eleazar. This act ensured the unbroken continuity of the Aaronic priesthood, which was absolutely essential for the spiritual life, worship, and atonement system of Israel. It demonstrated God's faithfulness in maintaining the covenant relationship with His people through an established and divinely sanctioned priesthood, even in the midst of judgment and transition.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 20:27, with its depiction of Aaron's death and the transfer of the high priesthood, points powerfully to the ultimate and eternal High Priesthood of Jesus Christ. The temporary nature of the Aaronic priesthood, marked by death and succession, underscores its inherent limitations and its inability to provide a perfect, permanent atonement. Each high priest, like Aaron, was mortal and flawed, requiring a successor. This constant cycle of death and replacement in the Levitical system, as highlighted in Hebrews 7:23, ultimately foreshadowed the coming of a High Priest who would not be subject to death. Jesus Christ, our great High Priest, holds His priesthood permanently because He lives forever (Hebrews 7:24). Unlike Aaron, who died due to disobedience, Christ perfectly fulfilled all righteousness through His life of unwavering obedience to the Father, even to the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). His sacrifice was not a temporary covering but a perfect, once-for-all atonement (Hebrews 9:11-14). Thus, the solemn transition on Mount Hor, ensuring the continuity of a flawed priesthood, ultimately directs our gaze to the Lamb of God, who, through His eternal priesthood and perfect sacrifice, truly takes away the sin of the world and offers eternal life to all who believe (John 1:29).