The Ibn Ezra explains that Aharon was chosen to carry the mantle of priesthood since he was married to Elisheva, the sister of the famous Nachshon Ben Aminadav, who was the first one to enter the Red Sea. Rather than delve into the significance of being Nachshon’s sister, we may suggest another insight to be derived from the Ibn Ezra. It is the basic understanding that children are the products of their parents. Their character development is greatly influenced by the distinct character traits they individually inherit from their parents. The Ibn Ezra is teaching us that even the parents are influenced by each other. Aharon received the mantle of priesthood because of the specific qualities of his wife’s family, of which she obviously was replete and exemplary. These very special character traits were passed on to Aharon as a result of his marriage and close relationship with his wife.
