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This past Thursday, Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av, marked the yahrzeit of Aharon HaKohen. In this shiur, we delve into the character of this legendary figure to draw an important lesson for the nine days leading up to Tisha BâAv.
Aharon, the eldest son of Amram, the Gadol HaDor, belonged to the tribe of Levi. After the passing of Amram, Aharon assumed leadership of Am Yisrael in the absence of Moshe, who was in Midyan. Aharon, in addition to being a leader, was also a prophet.
The first mention of Aharon in the Torah comes after the incident of the Burning Bush. When Hashem instructs Moshe to return to Egypt to redeem Am Yisrael, Moshe hesitates due to his speech impediment and reluctance to overshadow Aharon as the leader.
It is revealed that Aharon had already been informed through prophecy about Moshe’s leadership role. This insight provides a glimpse into Aharon’s character. Despite the potential challenge of having his younger brother assume leadership over him, Aharon, upon meeting Moshe, is described as being happy in his heart from the moment he heard the prophecy.
Although Aharon is portrayed as a spokesperson for Moshe, always conveying Hashem’s messages, there are instances where he speaks independently. One such occasion is when he directs the creation of the golden calf in Moshe’s absence, showcasing his initiative. Aharon’s silence following the tragic deaths of his sons Nadav and Avihu further highlights his unwavering acceptance and obedience to Hashem’s commands.
Despite appearing as a passive figure, Aharon’s true essence is revealed through his dedication to serving G-d and Am Yisrael. His actions, including mediating conflicts and striving for unity within the community, reflect his deep commitment to peace and the well-being of his people.
Aharon HaKohen exemplifies selflessness and devotion, placing the needs of others above his own. His legacy as a peacemaker and guardian of unity is epitomized by the countless individuals named Aharon who were born as a result of his efforts to preserve the unity of Am Yisrael.
Parshat HaShavua Trivia Question: What was the final destination of Am Yisrael during their journey through the Midbar?
Answer to Last Weekâs Trivia Question: The Torah prefaces each tribe’s name with the letter “heh” and suffixes it with the letter “yud” (Bamidbar 27:2-51) to signify that every family in Am Yisrael that left Egypt was pure and did not engage in infidelity with the Egyptians, as affirmed by Hashem’s name “yud keh.”