How did Aaron’s incense offering stop a plague during the rebellion in Numbers?

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Aaron Aaron, detail of a 3rd-century fresco from the synagogue at Doura-Europus, Syria; in the National Museum, Damascus

In the Book of Numbers, the Israelites continued to complain against Moses and Aaron following a revolt by certain Levites and Reubenites. This persistent defiance provoked the anger of the Lord, resulting in a plague being sent upon the people.1

To stop the plague, Aaron performed an offering of incense. This act is described as a proper and effective priestly function that successfully intervened to save the people from the divine wrath. This event served to authenticate Aaron’s special priestly authority within the community.1