Chukkat

Aaron has, arguably, the most formal and visible death scene in the Bible. He is taken by Moses to the top of Mount Hor with his son, Eleazar, in the presence “of the whole community”. He died on the mountain’s summit.
The public nature of his death is emphasised another two times: “the whole community knew that Aaron had breathed his last”, “All the house of Israel bewailed Aaron thirty days” (Numbers 20:29).

The midrashic portrait is equally compelling. Aaron goes peacefully into eternal slumber as the removal of the clothing that signified his very public leadership literally takes his breath away.

Aaron’s death, in both the biblical text and the midrashic commentary, matched his life. He was chosen as a leader because he could speak publicly where his brother could not. His job involved public, visible service. His distinctive uniform for the role of high priest was made with sacred intention and worn to model for others the majesty of divine service.

In Aaron’s lifetime, he stalled the Israelites during the golden calf incident. His disciples in Ethics of the Fathers are regarded as lovers of peace and pursuers of peace. His death is without conflict.