Numbers 4:16

Eleazar son of Aaron the priest shall oversee the oil for the light, the fragrant incense, the daily grain offering, and the anointing oil. He has oversight of the entire tabernacle and everything in it, including the holy objects and their utensils."

Study Bible

Eleazar son of Aaron the priest
Eleazar was the third son of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and served as a priest. After the death of his brothers Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar took on greater responsibilities. His role signifies the importance of the priestly lineage and the continuation of the Levitical priesthood. This lineage is crucial in maintaining the sanctity and order of worship as prescribed by God.

shall oversee the oil for the light
The oil for the light refers to the pure olive oil used in the golden lampstand (menorah) within the Tabernacle. This light was to burn continually, symbolizing God's eternal presence and guidance. The oversight of this oil underscores the importance of maintaining spiritual vigilance and the light of God's truth.

the fragrant incense
The incense was a blend of specific spices burned on the altar of incense, representing the prayers of the people ascending to God. This practice highlights the importance of intercession and the priestly role in mediating between God and His people. The fragrance symbolizes the pleasing nature of sincere worship and prayer.

the daily grain offering
The daily grain offering, or "minchah," was a regular offering made to God, consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense. It represents the dedication of daily sustenance and labor to God, acknowledging His provision. This offering is a type of Christ, who is the bread of life, sustaining believers spiritually.

and the anointing oil
The anointing oil was a sacred mixture used to consecrate priests, kings, and the Tabernacle itself. It signifies the setting apart for holy purposes and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Anointing is a type of Christ (the Anointed One), who fulfills the roles of prophet, priest, and king.

He has oversight of the entire tabernacle and everything in it
Eleazar's responsibility for the Tabernacle and its contents emphasizes the need for careful stewardship of sacred spaces and objects. The Tabernacle was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, and its maintenance was crucial for proper worship and communion with God.

including the holy objects and their utensils
The holy objects and utensils were the instruments used in worship and sacrifices, each with specific functions and symbolic meanings. Their sanctity and proper use were vital for maintaining the purity of worship. This oversight reflects the meticulous care required in approaching God, foreshadowing the perfect mediation of Christ, who fulfills and surpasses these Old Testament types.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Eleazar
The son of Aaron, the high priest, Eleazar was given significant responsibilities in the service of the tabernacle. His duties included overseeing the sacred elements and ensuring the proper functioning of the tabernacle.

2. Aaron
The high priest and father of Eleazar, Aaron was the brother of Moses and played a crucial role in the spiritual leadership of Israel.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, the tabernacle was central to their worship and religious practices.

4. Holy Furnishings and Articles
These included items such as the lampstand, altar of incense, and other sacred objects used in the worship and rituals of the tabernacle.

5. Israelites
The people of God, who were journeying through the wilderness under the leadership of Moses and Aaron, and for whom the tabernacle served as a focal point of worship.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Service
Eleazar's role required meticulous attention to detail and faithfulness. In our own lives, we are called to be faithful stewards of the responsibilities God has entrusted to us.

The Importance of Worship
The elements Eleazar managed were central to Israel's worship. This reminds us of the importance of maintaining a heart and life centered on worshiping God.

Leadership and Responsibility
As a leader, Eleazar had to ensure everything was in order. This teaches us about the weight of leadership and the need for integrity and diligence in our roles.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The tabernacle and its elements symbolize God's presence and holiness. We are reminded to approach God with reverence and to live lives that reflect His holiness.

Continuity of God's Plan
The duties of Eleazar point to the continuity of God's plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament, culminating in Christ, our High Priest.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Eleazar's faithfulness in his duties, and how can we apply this to our own responsibilities today?

2. How does the role of the tabernacle in Israel's worship inform our understanding of worship in the church today?

3. In what ways does the leadership of Eleazar reflect the qualities of a godly leader, and how can we cultivate these qualities in our own lives?

4. How do the elements Eleazar managed (oil, incense, grain offering, anointing oil) symbolize aspects of our spiritual life and worship?

5. How does the continuity of God's plan from the tabernacle to Christ as our High Priest encourage us in our faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30
This chapter provides detailed instructions on the making and use of the anointing oil and incense, which Eleazar was responsible for. It highlights the sacredness and specificity of the tabernacle's rituals.

Leviticus 24
This passage discusses the care of the lampstand and the bread of the Presence, connecting to Eleazar's duty to manage the oil for the light.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament chapter reflects on the tabernacle's role and its foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate priesthood, drawing a parallel to the responsibilities of Eleazar.