A Complete Genealogy of The Israelites

Exodus 6:14–30
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This passage gives a complete genealogy of the Israelites and the list begins by mentioning Reuben and Simeon, the two oldest of the twelve sons of Jacob (vv. 14-15). The next name to appear is Levi, the third son of Jacob and Leah and the prominence given to him becomes apparent. The remainder of the genealogy traces Levi’s descendants exclusively to the fifth generation with the primary focus not being on Moses but Aaron (vv. 16-25). Although other names are mentioned, the clear focus of the genealogy is the levitical lineage from Levi to Phinehas and Aaron stands in the midway position.

You may ask, What is the significance of this genealogy in this context? I am not certain but perhaps it is to show that God’s purpose reaches both backward and forward. Perhaps the significance of Phinehas as the termination point of this genealogy is to draw attention to the covenant faithfulness of the line of Levi to Phinehas, which includes Aaron, who had several short comings. The point of this genealogy seems to confirm Aaron as a worthy partner of Moses in the deliverance of Israel from Egypt and particularly in his role as Moses’ mouthpiece. By the time we get to the end of the genealogy Aaron’s authority is firmly established and the stage is set for the series of encounters with Pharaoh that leads to the release of the Israelites (vv. 26-27). Next the author picks up where he left off before the genealogy emphasizing God’s decisive role in bringing the Israelites out of Egypt (vv. 28-30). Moses is to be an authority figure to Pharoah and not just to Aaron.

Application

When opportunity comes for me to take a stand for the Lord I am not to soft-pedal what I believe but to speak up boldly for Him?