Numbers 20:26
And strip Aaron of his garments, and put them upon Eleazar his son: and Aaron shall be gathered unto his people, and shall die there.
Original Language Analysis
וְהַפְשֵׁ֤ט
And strip
H6584
וְהַפְשֵׁ֤ט
And strip
Strong's:
H6584
Word #:
1 of 13
to spread out (i.e., deploy in hostile array); by analogy, to strip (i.e., unclothe, plunder, flay, etc.)
אֶֽת
H853
אֶֽת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וְהִלְבַּשְׁתָּ֖ם
and put
H3847
וְהִלְבַּשְׁתָּ֖ם
and put
Strong's:
H3847
Word #:
6 of 13
properly, wrap around, i.e., (by implication) to put on a garment or clothe (oneself, or another), literally or figuratively
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
7 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בְּנ֑וֹ
his son
H1121
בְּנ֑וֹ
his son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
9 of 13
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
יֵֽאָסֵ֖ף
shall be gathered
H622
יֵֽאָסֵ֖ף
shall be gathered
Strong's:
H622
Word #:
11 of 13
to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e., remove (destroy, leave behind, put up, restore, etc.)
Historical Context
Eleazar became high priest, continuing Aaron's line. His descendants held the high priesthood until the exile, except during Eli's period. This unbroken succession demonstrated God's faithfulness to His covenant with Aaron.
Questions for Reflection
- What does being 'gathered to one's people' teach about death and family continuity in faith?
- How do you prepare successors in your areas of ministry responsibility?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Moses was to 'strip Aaron of his garments, and put them upon Eleazar his son: and Aaron shall be gathered unto his people, and shall die there.' The phrase 'gathered unto his people' indicates joining deceased ancestors in Sheol, affirming continuity between generations and reality of life after death. The transfer of garments while Aaron lived ensured clear succession without contested authority.