Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why was Aharon taken to Mount Hor?
A: According to Rashi and the Talmud (Yoma 3a), Aharon was taken to Mount Hor because it was the place where he would pass away. This was part of Hashem's decree due to the incident at Mei Merivah (the Waters of Strife), where Moshe and Aharon did not fully sanctify Hashem's name (Numbers 20:12).
Q: Why was Elazar, Aharon's son, brought up with him?
A: Elazar was brought up with Aharon because he was to succeed his father as Kohen Gadol (High Priest). The Midrash (Tanchuma Chukat 18) explains that this transition was done publicly to avoid disputes, showing that Elazar's appointment was divinely ordained.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Aharon's passing on Mount Hor?
A: The Talmud (Rosh Hashanah 2b) teaches that Aharon's death was a moment of great mourning for all of Israel, as he was a pursuer of peace. From this, we learn the importance of fostering harmony and resolving conflicts, traits for which Aharon was especially beloved.
Q: Where is Mount Hor located?
A: Traditional Jewish sources (Rashi on Numbers 20:22) identify Mount Hor as being near the border of Edom. The exact location is debated, but it is associated with the area where the Israelites traveled during their 40 years in the wilderness.
Q: Why did Moshe have to bring Aharon up the mountain instead of Aharon going himself?
A: Rashi explains (Numbers 20:25) that Moshe was instructed to bring Aharon up the mountain to honor him in his final moments. This act of kindness (chesed) reflects the deep respect and love Moshe had for his brother, setting an example for how we should treat others, especially in difficult times.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bamidbar 20:25) commands Moshe to take Aharon and his son Elazar up to Har HaHor, where Aharon will pass away. This occurs after the incident of Mei Merivah, where Moshe and Aharon were told they would not lead Bnei Yisrael into Eretz Yisrael.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Bamidbar 20:25) explains that the phrase "Take Aharon" implies that Moshe should persuade Aharon with comforting words, telling him that he is privileged to see his son Elazar succeed him as Kohen Gadol. This softens the blow of Aharon's impending death.
Symbolism of Har HaHor
The Midrash (Tanchuma Chukat 10) notes that Har HaHor was chosen because:
The Transfer of Kehunah
Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 4:15) derives from this verse the principle that the Kohen Gadol's garments must be transferred directly to his successor. The Talmud (Zevachim 17b) notes that Elazar was dressed in Aharon's garments before Aharon died, ensuring uninterrupted priestly service.
Aharon's Unique Passing
The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 19:19) highlights that Aharon's death was through a "kiss" from Hashem (mitah b'neshika), a peaceful departure reserved for the most righteous. This contrasts with Moshe's later death where he had to ascend alone.