Book of Numbers - Chapter 20 - Verse 28

In this particular verse from the Book of Numbers, Moses is seen transferring the high priestly garments from Aaron to his son Eleazar as a symbolic act of succession. By stripping Aaron of his garments and putting them on Eleazar, Moses is effectively passing on the high priestly role to the next generation. The act of changing the garments signifies a shift in leadership from one individual to another, establishing Eleazar as the new high priest following Aaron's death. This moment represents a crucial transition in the religious leadership of the Israelites, ensuring the continuity of the priestly tradition within the community. As Moses and Eleazar descend from the mount together, it marks the beginning of a new chapter in the religious hierarchy and highlights the importance of succession planning in religious institutions.

One theological interpretation of the verse where Moses stripped Aaron of his garments and put them upon Eleazar his son is that it symbolizes a transfer of authority from the older generation to the younger generation. Aaron, the high priest, passes away on the mountain, and the garments of the high priest are no longer worn by him but are passed on to his son, Eleazar. This can be seen as a foreshadowing of the passing of leadership from one generation to the next in the Israelite priesthood. Additionally, this action may serve as a reminder that no one person is indispensable in God's plan, as even a high priest like Aaron eventually must pass the torch to the next leader. Through this act, Moses and Eleazar demonstrate obedience to God's will and acceptance of the divine order of succession. This transfer of garments also signifies a continuation of the priestly line and highlights the importance of lineage and heritage in the Israelite religious tradition.