“And the LORD was very angry with Aaron to have destroyed him: and I prayed for Aaron also the same time.”
Context:The book of Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible and is part of the Torah, which contains the laws and teachings of Moses to the Israelites. Deuteronomy means “second law,” and it recounts Moses’ final words of instruction before the Israelites enter the Promised Land.
Historical Background:This verse refers to an event that took place during the Israelites’ wilderness journey after their deliverance from Egypt. The incident being described occurred while Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments from God. The people grew impatient and persuaded Aaron, Moses’ brother, to make a golden calf as an object of worship.
Moses’ Intercession:When Moses came down from the mountain and saw the people worshiping the golden calf, he was greatly angered. In this verse, it mentions that the Lord was also angry with Aaron for his involvement in the people’s disobedience. However, Moses interceded for Aaron, pleading for God’s mercy upon him.
The Role of Intercession:Intercession is the act of praying on behalf of someone else. In this case, Moses stood in the gap for Aaron, seeking God’s forgiveness and protection. Moses’ intercession illustrates his love and concern for his brother, as well as his understanding of the seriousness of their actions.
God’s Response:The verse does not explicitly state God’s response to Moses’ intercession for Aaron. However, later in the passage (Deuteronomy 9:25-29), Moses recounts his pleading with God on behalf of the people as a whole, including Aaron. God relented from destroying the people, showing His willingness to respond to the prayers of a righteous intercessor.
