Was Aaron Above The Law?

Billie Smith wondered if God really held Aaron accountable when both Aaron and Miriam began to speak against Moses (Num 12). It doesn't seem like it at our first examination of the text: only Miriam is struck with leprosy.

However, let's do a thought experiment. Think of the person you love most in this world. It could be your Mom, your spouse, fiance or kid sister. Now ask yourself this question: "How would I feel if that loved one were struck with incurable cancer because of my actions?"

The point is that God chastened Aaron (as well as Miriam) by inflicting Miram with leprosy. Aaron and Miriam were apparently very close. Not only were they siblings, having grown up together, but they apparently were both prophetically gifted and shared that ministry affinity (Num 12.2). They were certainly close enough to develop a shared beef against their brother Moses (Num 12.1). So, with this in mind, notice what Aaron says when he sees his sister white with leprosy: "Please, my lord, do not hold against us the sin we have so foolishly committed." I don't think anyone in the community felt that Aaron was getting off without being called to account for his sin. Not even the top leaders of Israel are above accountability to God's laws and principles!