And take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office, even Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron's sons.

EXODUS 28:1KJV
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Exodus 28:1 (KJV)

What does Exodus 28:1 mean?

Exodus 28:1 describes God telling Moses to set apart Aaron, Moses’ brother, and Aaron’s sons—Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar—from among the Israelites to serve as priests. This verse marks the beginning of the priesthood in Israel, with Aaron and his sons chosen for special religious duties.

God is speaking directly to Moses, instructing him to bring Aaron and his sons forward for a unique role. The setting is at Mount Sinai, where God is giving Moses detailed instructions for worship and leadership. The verse introduces the idea that not everyone in Israel would serve as a priest; instead, this responsibility is given to a specific family line.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 28:1

  • "take" (קָרַב, qārav): This word is often used for bringing someone near for a special purpose, emphasizing that Aaron and his sons are being set apart from the rest of the people.
  • "office" (כָּהֵן, kōhēn): This word means "priest," highlighting that Aaron and his sons are being given the official role of serving God in religious matters, not just any general service.

Why Exodus 28:1 matters

  • Exodus 28:1 clarifies that the priesthood was not open to all Israelites, but was given specifically to Aaron and his descendants, setting up a hereditary system.
  • This verse helps explain later references to "the sons of Aaron" as priests, showing where their special status began.
  • Understanding this verse sheds light on the structure of Israelite worship and leadership, which depended on clear roles and responsibilities given by God.