1 Chronicles 6:49

But Aaron, and his sonnes offered vpon the altar of the burnt offering, and on the altar of incense, and were appointed for all the worke of the place most holy, and to make an atonement for Israel, according to all that Moses the seruant of God had commaunded. 1 Chronicles 6:49 (KJV)

Context: The book of 1 Chronicles is a historical record of the genealogy and history of Israel, focusing on the line of David. Chapter 6 specifically deals with the genealogy of the Levites and their roles in the service of God’s tabernacle and later the temple.

Aaron and His Sons: Aaron was the brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. His sons, known as the Aaronic priesthood, assisted him in the duties of the tabernacle. This verse emphasizes their role in offering sacrifices on the altars and performing the work in the most holy place.

Altars of Burnt Offering and Incense: The tabernacle had two main altars. The altar of burnt offering was located in the outer court and was used for sacrificing animals as a symbol of atonement for sin. The altar of incense was located inside the holy place and was used for burning incense as a fragrant offering to God; traditionally it has been seen as symbolizing the prayers of the people.

Work of the Place Most Holy: The “place most holy” refers to the inner sanctuary of the tabernacle, also known as the Holy of Holies. Only the high priest could enter this sacred space, and he did so once a year on the Day of Atonement to make atonement for the sins of the people.

Atonement for Israel: The primary responsibility of Aaron and his sons was to make atonement for the sins of Israel. Atonement means to reconcile or make amends for wrongdoing. Through the sacrificial system established by God, the sins of the people were symbolically transferred onto the animal sacrifices, and forgiveness was obtained.

Moses’ Command: This verse acknowledges that the role and responsibilities of Aaron and his sons were in accordance with the commands given by Moses, the servant of God. Moses received detailed instructions from God regarding the construction of the tabernacle, the priesthood, and the sacrificial system, as recorded in the book of Exodus.