32:21–24 In Aaron’s pathetic defense he blames the people for his own unfaithfulness, and even suggests a miraculous origin for the calf (v. 24). Aaron’s conduct throughout this episode suggests that the Levitical priesthood was destined for failure from its inception (Heb. 5:2, 3; 9:7). Divine judgment upon Aaron was averted only by Moses’ intercession (Deut. 9:20; 10:6–9 and note on 10:6).