V. 4.— And no man taketh this honor unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. The office of the priest, more especially of the high priest, was peculiarly honorable; he stood between God and the people. He was, as it were, brought nigh to God. This was indeed the case with the whole tribe of Levi, who are described as brought near to God. Numb. 16:9. They alone had access to the Tabernacle, the royal pavilion. They were, so to speak, the household servants of the King of Israel, but the High Priest was the head servant, so far as the worship of God was concerned; he was the chief, the ruler of all God's house, and no man took the honor to himself. What should we say of a man who entered the palace of an earthly king, and assumed authority to give directions to the servants? Such conduct would not be tolerated, and how much less that any one should assume the office of High Priest in Israel, without a special call similar to that given to Aaron? Exodus 28:1. His appointment to the office was conducted in a very solemn manner. He was distinguished by a peculiar dress emblematic of his office, and minute directions were given him as to the mode of executing his office. In causing his rod to bud, to bring forth blossoms, and bear almonds, God confirmed his appointment; and again, by consuming Korah and his company, who dared to burn incense, and whose censers were made broad plates for a covering of the altar. Numb. 16:39, 40. This was a standing memorial that no stranger, who was not of the seed of Aaron, should come near to offer incense before the Lord.