Aaron knows from his own experience what it is to give in to temptation (Exodus 32:22–24); he shows control in the face of provocation and envy (Numbers 14:5; Numbers 16:22; Psalm 106:16). Moses, though not a high priest, knows what it is like to give free rein to his anger against the sin of God’s children (Exodus 32:19). The later high priest Joshua is charged on account of his filthy garments (Zechariah 3:1–3). This awareness of one’s own weakness and sin gives the benefit of a human face to the pastoral care of the high priest. Knowing his limitations, he is able to moderate his feelings of outrage over sin and show compassion with the sinners.1
2 He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness.