Numbers 20:29
And when all the congregation saw that Aaron was dead, they mourned for Aaron thirty days, even all the house of Israel.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּרְאוּ֙
saw
H7200
וַיִּרְאוּ֙
saw
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
1 of 14
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
2 of 14
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
הָ֣עֵדָ֔ה
And when all the congregation
H5712
הָ֣עֵדָ֔ה
And when all the congregation
Strong's:
H5712
Word #:
3 of 14
a stated assemblage (specifically, a concourse, or generally, a family or crowd)
כִּ֥י
H3588
כִּ֥י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
4 of 14
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
אֶֽת
H853
אֶֽת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
8 of 14
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
י֔וֹם
days
H3117
י֔וֹם
days
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
11 of 14
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
כֹּ֖ל
H3605
כֹּ֖ל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
12 of 14
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Historical Context
Traditional mourning periods in Israel lasted 30 days for significant leaders (Deuteronomy 34:8) versus 7 days for ordinary deaths. This extended mourning honored Aaron's unique role as Israel's intercessor and mediator.
Questions for Reflection
- How should churches honor faithful leaders who complete their service and depart?
- What legacy do you want to leave that causes others to genuinely mourn your absence?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Moses and Eleazar 'came down from the mount,' and 'when all the congregation saw that Aaron was dead, they mourned for Aaron thirty days.' The entire nation grieved their first high priest's passing, showing genuine affection despite previous rebellions against him (16:3, 41). The 30-day mourning period matched Moses' later mourning (Deuteronomy 34:8), honoring leaders who served faithfully despite personal cost.