Numbers 33:38
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 33:38
38 And Aaron the priest went up into mount Hor at the commandment of the LORD, and died there, in the fortieth year after the children of Israel were come out of the land of Egypt, in the first day of the fifth month.
Chapter Context
Numbers 33 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, prayer, love. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-56: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 33:38
38 And Aaron the priest went up into mount Hor at the commandment of the LORD, and died there, in the fortieth year after the children of Israel were come out of the land of Egypt, in the first day of the fifth month.
Analysis
Aaron the priest went up into mount Hor at the commandment of the LORD, and died there—Aaron's death was divinely ordained, not accidental. The phrase at the commandment of the LORD (עַל־פִּי יְהוָה, 'al-pî YHWH, literally 'upon the mouth of Yahweh') indicates sovereign appointment. Aaron's time was complete.
The chronological marker—in the fortieth year after Exodus, the first day of the fifth month (about July/August)—gives precise dating. Aaron died five months before Israel crossed Jordan, having served as high priest for nearly 40 years. His exclusion from Canaan (like Moses') resulted from the rebellion at Meribah (20:12, 24). Even faithful servants face consequences for sin, yet God honored Aaron with a mountaintop death and mourning period (20:29).
Historical Context
Aaron was 123 years old (v. 39), having been consecrated as high priest at age 83 (Exodus 7:7). His death marked the end of the Exodus generation's leadership core. The fifth month (Av in the Hebrew calendar) became associated with tragedy—later, both temples were destroyed in this month.
Reflection
- What does it mean that Aaron died 'at the commandment of the LORD'—by divine appointment rather than chance?
- How should we understand that faithful leaders like Aaron and Moses faced severe consequences (exclusion from Canaan) for their failures?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Israel: Deuteronomy 10:6
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 32:50