The answer is: Aaron

Num 26:59 - Miriam was their sister. Aaron was 3 years older than Moses (Exo 7:7).

Aaron, the elder brother of Moses, is a fascinating character in the story of Exodus. Many might picture him merely as Moses' sidekick, but Aaron played a crucial role in supporting his brother during a monumental time in the Israelites' history. It’s interesting to note that Aaron was designated as the first high priest, which laid the foundation for the priesthood that would continue through his descendants.

Bringing Aaron into the story brings a bit of drama too—after all, he was the one who created the infamous Golden Calf when Moses took too long to return from Mount Sinai (Exodus 32). This little incident serves as a powerful narrative about the struggle between faithfulness and human frailty.

Miriam, the sister of both Moses and Aaron, is also a strong figure. Together, these three stand out in Biblical narrative—reflecting different aspects of leadership and cultural heritage. Did you know that tradition often considers Miriam as the precursor to female prophecy? Her role adds depth to women in Scripture, elevating discussions around female voice in spiritual contexts.

All of this whets the appetite for deeper exploration. Why did the ancestral lineage matter so much in ancient Israel? What does Aaron's fluctuating success and failure tell us about the complexities of duty and companionship in leadership? Each of these threads invites deeper understanding and reflection as you dive into these ancient stories.