“And Eleazar the son of Aaron died; and they buried him in a hill that pertained to Phinehas his son, which was given him in mount Ephraim.”
Numbers 26:32 is a relatively brief verse that describes the death and burial of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, who was a prominent figure in the Old Testament as the high priest of Israel after the passing of his father.
Context: The book of Numbers is primarily concerned with the period of Israel’s wilderness wanderings. It provides a detailed account of the various census numbers, tribal arrangements, and the division of land among the tribes of Israel. In Numbers 26, a census is conducted to count the new generation of Israelites who are preparing to enter the Promised Land.
Eleazar, the son of Aaron: Eleazar was the third son of Aaron, the brother of Moses. He played a significant role in the priesthood and was appointed as high priest after the deaths of his father and older brothers, Nadab and Abihu. Eleazar assisted Moses in various religious and administrative duties during the wilderness journey.
Death of Eleazar: According to Numbers 20:28, the Lord commanded Moses and Aaron to pass the priesthood to Eleazar before Aaron’s death. Numbers 26:32 mentions the death of Eleazar, indicating the passing of another key figure within the Israelite community. The verse doesn’t provide specific details about the cause or circumstances of his death.
Burial in Mount Ephraim: The verse states that Eleazar was buried in a hill or mountain in the region of Ephraim. Mount Ephraim was located in the central part of the land of Canaan, which would eventually be assigned to the tribe of Ephraim during the distribution of the Promised Land. This location is significant because it highlights Eleazar’s connection to the land and his familial ties.
Symbolic Meaning: While this verse primarily focuses on the factual account of Eleazar’s death and burial, it also signifies the continuation of the priestly lineage and the passing of responsibility from one generation to the next. Eleazar’s burial in Mount Ephraim symbolizes the connection between the priesthood and the inheritance of the land promised to the Israelites.
Overall, Numbers 26:32 highlights the transition of leadership within the priesthood, with Eleazar’s death being recorded as a significant event in the history of Israel. It also demonstrates the ongoing fulfillment of God’s promises to the Israelites as they prepare to enter and settle in the Promised Land.
