Aaronides

The Aaronides were a priestly lineage in ancient Israel, tracing their descent from Aaron, the brother of Moses. According to the Hebrew Bible, the priesthood was divinely ordained to be passed down through the male line of Aaron's descendants, specifically from the tribe of Levi. This hereditary role was central to the worship of Yahweh in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple in Jerusalem.

The primary duties of the Aaronides included offering sacrifices, performing rituals, maintaining the sacred space, and teaching the Law. They were distinguished by their sacred garments, which were described in detail in the Book of Exodus. The High Priest, who held the highest priestly authority, was always an Aaronide and was responsible for the most sacred rites, including entering the Holy of Holies on the Day of Atonement.

Throughout the periods of the monarchy and the Second Temple, the Aaronide priesthood played a significant role in religious and sometimes political life. However, their status and authority were not always unchallenged, and various historical events, such as periods of foreign domination or internal dissent, affected their position. The concept of the Aaronides as the divinely appointed priestly class remained a cornerstone of Israelite religion until the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, after which the formal priesthood ceased to function in its ancient capacity.