“And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a censer, and put fire therein from off the altar, and put on incense, and go quickly unto the congregation, and make an atonement for them: for there is wrath gone out from the LORD; the plague is begun.”
Context: Numbers 16 records the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram against Moses and Aaron’s leadership. They challenged the authority of Moses and questioned why he and Aaron were exalted above the rest of the congregation. As a result, God’s anger was kindled against them, and He demonstrated His judgment through various signs. In verse 46, a plague had broken out among the people, and Moses instructed Aaron to intervene and make an atonement for the congregation.
The Role of Aaron: Aaron was the high priest, appointed by God to serve as the mediator between the people and God. In this passage, he is given a specific task to stop the plague. The use of a censer and incense was a part of the ceremonial rituals associated with atonement and intercession for the people.
Atonement: The word “atonement” refers to the act of reconciling or making amends for sins or offenses. In this context, Aaron was instructed to make an atonement for the people who were affected by the plague. The plague was a consequence of the rebellion and sin of the people. Aaron’s actions were meant to appease God’s wrath and bring reconciliation between God and the people.
The Significance of Fire: The fire was to be taken from the altar, which symbolized the presence of God and the atoning sacrifice. It represented the divine judgment and purification. By using fire from the altar, Aaron was acknowledging the need for God’s intervention and mercy to stop the plague.
Urgency and Intercession: Moses instructed Aaron to go quickly to the congregation. The plague was spreading, and immediate action was required to prevent further harm. This shows the urgency of intercession in times of crisis. Aaron’s role as the high priest was to intercede on behalf of the people and seek God’s mercy and intervention.
God’s Wrath and Mercy: The verse mentions that there was wrath gone out from the LORD. It signifies God’s righteous anger against sin and rebellion. However, it also highlights God’s willingness to respond to intercession and make provision for atonement. Despite the people’s disobedience, God provided a way to reconcile with Him through the actions of Aaron.
Lessons for us: This passage reminds us of the seriousness of rebellion against God’s appointed leaders and the consequences of sin. It also emphasizes the importance of intercessory prayer and seeking God’s mercy in times of crisis. We learn that God’s wrath can be turned away through atonement and intercession.
