This book provides the first full-length literary and form-critical study of Aaron, a central yet long-neglected biblical figure. Utilizing a range of methodologies, it carefully examines key Pentateuchal texts which present Aaron in multiple ways. From his appearance as prophet and co-worker with Moses in Exodus 7-11, through his duplicitous behavior in the Golden Calf incident of Exodus 32-34, his priestly ordination and activity in Leviticus 9-11, his interaction with Miriam and Moses in Numbers 12, his challenge and triumph in Numbers 16-17, to the notice of his inadequacy and death in Deuteronomy 9-10, Aaron emerges as a vital yet variable character in the biblical narratives. The author offers original conclusions on Aaron's depictions by the biblical authors, the dating and historical settings of the texts where he appears, the relation of characterization to ideology and context, and how literary studies can produce fresh and fruitful insights in the future.
