### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼAhărôwn**, represented by `{{H175}}`, is the proper name **Aaron**. Of uncertain derivation, it refers to the brother of Moses. The name appears 347 times across 328 unique verses, establishing Aaron as a central figure in the biblical narrative, particularly within the story of Israel's formation and worship system.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **ʼAhărôwn** `{{H175}}` serves several critical roles alongside his brother, Moses `{{H4872}}`. He is appointed by God to be Moses' **prophet** `{{H5030}}` to Pharaoh [[Exodus 7:1]] and is a co-leader in bringing Israel out of Egypt ([[Exodus 6:26]], [[Micah 6:4]]). His primary role, however, is as the first high priest, set apart with his sons to **minister unto me in the priest's office** `{{H3547}}` [[Exodus 28:1]]. His life is marked by both faithfulness and failure. He supported Moses by holding up his hands during battle [[Exodus 17:12]], yet he also relented to the people's demands to create the golden calf [[Exodus 32:1]]. He experienced profound personal tragedy when his sons Nadab and Abihu were killed for offering strange fire, a moment in which Aaron "held his peace" [[Leviticus 10:1-3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify Aaron's identity and function:
* `{{H4872}}` **Môsheh** (Moses): Defined as "drawing out (of the water), i.e. rescued; Mosheh, the Israelite lawgiver." Aaron's identity is almost inseparable from that of his brother, with whom he leads Israel [[Exodus 6:26]].
* `{{H3547}}` **kâhan** (to officiate as a priest): This verb, meaning to "mediate in religious services," defines Aaron's primary calling. God chose him and his sons "that he may minister unto me in the priest's office" [[Exodus 28:1]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): The noun form of Aaron's title, literally meaning "one officiating." His descendants are specifically designated as priests, like his son Ithamar [[Exodus 38:21]].
* `{{H5030}}` **nâbîyʼ** (a prophet or inspired man): This title is explicitly given to Aaron in his capacity as a spokesman for Moses before Pharaoh [[Exodus 7:1]].
* `{{H1288}}` **bârak** (to bless): A key function of the Aaronic priesthood was to bless in God's name, a duty established for Aaron and his sons "for ever" ([[1 Chronicles 23:13]], [[Numbers 6:23]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of **ʼAhărôwn** `{{H175}}` is foundational for understanding worship and mediation in the Old Testament.
* **Establishment of the Priesthood:** Aaron is the head of the Aaronic priesthood. He was separated to **sanctify** `{{H6942}}` the most holy things, burn incense, minister to the LORD, and bless in His name forever [[1 Chronicles 23:13]]. This hereditary office is seen in the "house of Aaron," which receives a distinct blessing [[Psalms 115:12]].
* **Role of the Mediator:** Aaron was commanded to bear the "judgment of the children of Israel upon his heart" [[Exodus 28:30]] and the "iniquity of the holy things" [[Exodus 28:38]]. His actions, such as making atonement with a censer of incense, demonstrate the priest's role in standing between God and the people [[Numbers 16:46]].
* **The Principle of Divine Inheritance:** God explicitly tells Aaron that he will have no land inheritance among the Israelites, declaring, "I am thy part and thine inheritance" [[Numbers 18:20]]. This sets the priesthood apart, with their provision and identity rooted directly in God himself.
* **The Standard of Holiness:** Aaron's life illustrates the severe standard of holiness required for those who approach God. The death of his sons serves as a stark reminder that God "will be sanctified in them that come nigh me" [[Leviticus 10:3]]. His entry into the holy place was strictly regulated, lest he die [[Leviticus 16:2]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʼAhărôwn** `{{H175}}` is a figure of immense importance, functioning as the brother and prophetic partner to Moses and, most significantly, as the patriarch of Israel's priesthood. His story is one of divine appointment to a sacred office, defining the roles of mediation, atonement, and blessing for generations to come. While marked by human weakness, his life and the establishment of his priestly line through the "house of Aaron" create the foundational structure for Israel's relationship with God through tabernacle and temple worship [[1 Chronicles 23:13]].
TRV