Aaron, brother of Moses

As with many Old Testament characters, how much of what is said to be known about Aaron is fact and how much is myth is open to doubt.

He was reputed to be the elder brother of Moses, the first high priest of the Israelites and the founder of the priesthood. He acted as the spokesman of Moses during the latter's dealings with the Pharaoh of Egypt and was co-leader of the Israelites during their journey to the Promised Land.

While Moses was receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai, Aaron gave in to the demands of the people for something to worship and allowed a golden calf to be made. Despite this act of rebellion, Aaron and his sons were ordained as priests after the Ark of the Covenant had been constructed and Aaron became hereditary high priest.

Several miracles were attributed to Aaron, including the blossoming of his rod into an almond tree. He was said to have lived to the age of 123.

© John Welford