### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼElʻâzâr**, represented by `{{H499}}`, means **"God (is) helper"**. It appears 72 times across 70 unique verses in the Bible. While the name is given to seven different Israelites, its most significant bearer is Eleazar, the son of Aaron, who became a central figure in the priesthood of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **ʼElʻâzâr** `{{H499}}` is first introduced as the third son of Aaron [[Exodus 6:23]]. He was appointed to minister in the priest's office alongside his father and brothers [[Exodus 28:1]]. After the death of his two older brothers, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and his younger brother Ithamar were the remaining sons to serve with Aaron [[Leviticus 10:6]]. He inherited the high priesthood from his father, with Moses stripping Aaron of his garments and putting them on Eleazar on Mount Hor before Aaron's death [[Numbers 20:28]]. As high priest, Eleazar worked alongside Joshua to divide the inheritances for the tribes of Israel in Shiloh [[Joshua 19:51]]. His specific duties included oversight of the tabernacle and its holy items, such as the oil for the light and the sweet incense [[Numbers 4:16]]. Another notable figure was Eleazar the son of Dodo, one of David's three mighty men [[2 Samuel 23:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several key figures and terms are closely associated with the life and role of **ʼElʻâzâr** `{{H499}}`:
* `{{H175}}` **ʼAhărôwn** (Aaron): Eleazar's father and the first high priest of Israel. Eleazar was chosen along with his father and brothers to minister to the LORD [[Exodus 28:1]] and eventually succeeded him.
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): This defines Eleazar's primary office as one who officiates in religious services. Eleazar served as the chief priest after his father's death [[Ezra 7:5]] and was responsible for critical religious duties.
* `{{H6372}}` **Pîynᵉchâç** (Phinehas): The son of Eleazar [[1 Chronicles 6:4]]. Phinehas was known for his own zeal, turning away God's wrath from Israel [[Numbers 25:11]]. Eleazar was eventually buried in a hill that pertained to Phinehas [[Joshua 24:33]].
* `{{H3091}}` **Yᵉhôwshûwaʻ** (Joshua): The leader of Israel after Moses. Eleazar the priest worked in partnership with Joshua to lead the people, inquire of the LORD, and divide the land as an inheritance [[Joshua 19:51]].
### Theological Significance
The life of **ʼElʻâzâr** `{{H499}}` carries significant theological weight, particularly regarding the continuity and responsibilities of the priesthood.
* **Priestly Succession:** Eleazar's investiture with Aaron's garments on Mount Hor symbolizes the divinely ordained transfer of the high priestly office from one generation to the next, ensuring the continuity of mediation and worship for Israel [[Numbers 20:28]]. After Aaron died, Eleazar ministered in his stead [[Deuteronomy 10:6]].
* **Oversight of the Holy:** Eleazar was entrusted with the oversight `{{H6486}}` of the entire tabernacle `{{H4908}}`, including the anointing oil `{{H4888}}`, the sweet incense `{{H7004}}`, and all the holy vessels `{{H3627}}`, underscoring the sacred trust and meticulous care required for the things of God [[Numbers 4:16]].
* **Authority and Divine Counsel:** As high priest, he stood before the LORD to ask for counsel for Joshua, the leader of Israel. This established a pattern where national leadership was to depend on the divine guidance sought through the priesthood [[Numbers 27:21]].
* **Executing Divine Commands:** Eleazar was the one to whom Moses gave the tribute `{{H4371}}` for the LORD's heave offering `{{H8641}}`, acting as the priestly authority to receive what was commanded by God [[Numbers 31:41]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʼElʻâzâr** `{{H499}}`, whose name means "God (is) helper," is a pivotal figure in the history of Israel's priesthood. More than just a name, he represents the unbroken line of succession from Aaron, ensuring the stability of Israel's worship and covenant relationship with God. His life of service, from his oversight of the tabernacle to his partnership with Joshua, highlights the priest's essential role as a spiritual leader, custodian of holy things, and mediator of divine will for the nation.
TRV