Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who were the sons of Aharon mentioned in Numbers 3:2?
A: The sons of Aharon were Nadav (the firstborn), Avihu, Elazar, and Itamar. They were the first Kohanim (priests) appointed to serve in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Rashi explains that listing their names emphasizes their special role in the divine service.
Q: Why is it important to list the names of Aharon's sons in the Torah?
A: The Torah lists their names to highlight their significance as the first Kohanim (priests) and to teach us the importance of their lineage in Jewish tradition. The Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 4:1) explains that the priesthood was passed down through Aharon's descendants, starting with these four sons.
Q: What happened to Nadav and Avihu later in the Torah?
A: Nadav and Avihu tragically died in the wilderness after bringing an unauthorized fire offering (Leviticus 10:1-2). Rashi explains that their punishment was due to acting without proper instruction, teaching us the importance of following halachah (Jewish law) precisely, especially in divine service.
Q: How did Elazar and Itamar continue the priestly line?
A: After Nadav and Avihu died, Elazar and Itamar carried on the priestly duties. Elazar eventually became the Kohen Gadol (High Priest), and his descendants served in that role for generations. The Talmud (Zevachim 101b) discusses their roles in maintaining the priestly service.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the listing of Aharon's sons?
A: This verse teaches us the importance of family lineage and responsibility in Judaism. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 3:2) explains that just as Aharon's sons were chosen for holiness, every Jew has a unique role in serving Hashem. It also reminds us of the seriousness of divine service, as seen in the fate of Nadav and Avihu.
The Sons of Aharon: Names and Significance
The verse lists the four sons of Aharon HaKohen: Nadav, Avihu, Elazar, and Itamar. Rashi (on Shemot 6:23) notes that the Torah emphasizes "the firstborn, Nadav," to clarify that despite the tragic deaths of Nadav and Avihu (Vayikra 10:1-2), Nadav retained his status as the firstborn in all halachic matters, including inheritance and priestly succession.
The Order of the Names
The order of the names follows their birth sequence, as explained by the Ramban (on Shemot 6:23). This establishes their roles in the priestly service, with Elazar ultimately becoming Kohen Gadol after his older brothers' passing (Bamidbar 20:25-28). The Sforno adds that listing all four sons together—despite the later tragedy—teaches that all were initially righteous and chosen for the kehunah.
Lessons from Nadav and Avihu
Elazar and Itamar: Continuity of the Kehunah
The Radak notes that Elazar and Itamar's survival ensured the continuity of the priestly line. The Meshech Chochmah highlights that Itamar's descendants (like Eli HaKohen) later played key roles, showing Divine Providence in preserving the kehunah through them. Their listing here foreshadows their future leadership (Bamidbar 3:4).