“And to the office of Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest pertaineth the oil for the light, and the sweet incense, and the daily meat offering, and the anointing oil, and the oversight of all the tabernacle, and of all that therein is, in the sanctuary, and in the vessels thereof.”
Context:The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Old Testament and primarily focuses on the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. In this passage, God is providing instructions to Moses regarding the responsibilities and duties of the Levites in the tabernacle.
Meaning and Significance:Office of Eleazar:Eleazar was the son of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and served as a priest in Israel. The passage highlights his specific responsibilities and duties within the tabernacle. It underscores the importance of the priesthood and the role they played in the worship and service of God. Oil for the light:One of Eleazar’s responsibilities was to oversee the provision of oil for the lamps in the tabernacle. This emphasizes the significance of light as a symbol of God’s presence and guidance. The oil represents the anointing of the Holy Spirit, which illuminates our lives and helps us walk in God’s ways. Sweet incense:Eleazar was also in charge of the sweet incense used in the tabernacle. Incense was burned as an offering to God, symbolizing the prayers and praises of the people rising to Him. It signifies the importance of worship and the connection between God and His people. Daily meat offering:The daily meat offering refers to the portion of grain or flour that was offered as a sacrifice to God. This offering was made each day as an act of worship and dedication to the Lord. It symbolizes the Israelites’ dependence on God for their sustenance and the recognition of His provision. Anointing oil:Eleazar had the responsibility of overseeing the anointing oil. Anointing oil was used to consecrate the tabernacle, the vessels, and the priests themselves. It signifies the setting apart of these items and individuals for God’s holy purposes. Oversight of the tabernacle:Eleazar’s role extended to the oversight of the entire tabernacle and everything within it. This implies his authority and responsibility for ensuring that everything was in order and functioning as per God’s instructions. It highlights the importance of order, reverence, and respect in the worship of God.
Lessons for us today:Specialized roles:Just as Eleazar had specific responsibilities, God has given each believer unique gifts and callings for service in His kingdom. We should seek to discover and fulfill our God-given purposes, using our talents and abilities to honour Him. Worship and prayer:The mention of the incense and the meat offering reminds us of the importance of worship and prayer in our lives. We should approach God with reverence, offering our prayers and praises to Him, recognising His provision and seeking His guidance. The anointing of the Holy Spirit:The anointing oil signifies the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. As believers, we are called to walk in the power and anointing of the Spirit, allowing Him to guide and empower us in our service to God. Order and reverence:The oversight of the tabernacle highlights the importance of order and reverence in our worship. We should approach God with awe and respect, following His instructions and seeking to honour Him in every aspect of our lives.
In conclusion, Numbers 4:16 reminds us of the specific responsibilities of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, within the tabernacle. It emphasises the importance of the priesthood, worship, and the anointing of the Holy Spirit. As we study this passage, we can draw lessons for our own lives, understanding our unique roles, engaging in worship and prayer, walking in the anointing of the Holy Spirit, and approaching God with order and reverence.
