This is a reference to Aaron.1 Aaron was the ancestor of Eli. He was chosen by the Lord and given important tasks in connection with Israel’s deliverance from Egypt (see Exodus 4:13–17, Exodus 27:1 – 31:18; Exodus 7:1). He was also chosen to assume priestly office, serving at the altar (Leviticus 1–7), burning incense (Exodus 30:1–10), and wearing the ephod, a means of receiving divine revelation (Exodus 28:3–13; Exodus 39:2–7).2
27 And there came a man of God to Eli and said to him, “Thus says the LORD, ‘Did I indeed reveal myself to the house of your father when they were in Egypt subject to the house of Pharaoh?