Numbers 36:1

Now the family heads of the clan of Gilead son of Machir son of Manasseh, one of the clans of Joseph, approached Moses and the leaders who were the heads of the Israelite families and addressed them,

Study Bible

Now the heads of the families
This phrase introduces the leaders or patriarchs of the family units within the tribe. In ancient Israel, family heads held significant authority and responsibility, often acting as representatives in legal and communal matters. The Hebrew word for "heads" is "רָאשִׁים" (roshim), which implies leadership and prominence. This reflects the structured and hierarchical nature of Israelite society, where family lineage and tribal affiliation were crucial.

of the sons of Gilead son of Machir, the son of Manasseh
This lineage traces back to Manasseh, one of Joseph's sons, highlighting the importance of tribal identity and inheritance. Gilead and Machir are significant figures within the tribe of Manasseh, with Gilead often associated with a region east of the Jordan River. The mention of these ancestors underscores the continuity of God's promises to the patriarchs and the fulfillment of His covenant through successive generations.

who were from the clans of the descendants of Joseph
Joseph, one of Jacob's twelve sons, received a double portion of inheritance through his sons, Ephraim and Manasseh. This phrase emphasizes the connection to Joseph, a key figure in Israel's history, known for his faithfulness and God's providential care in his life. The "clans" (Hebrew: "מִשְׁפָּחוֹת" mishpachot) indicate sub-divisions within the tribe, each with its own leadership and responsibilities.

approached and addressed Moses and the leaders
The act of approaching Moses and the leaders signifies a formal request or concern being brought before the highest authority. Moses, as the mediator between God and Israel, and the leaders, as representatives of the people, were responsible for interpreting and applying God's law. This reflects the theocratic nature of Israel's governance, where divine guidance was sought in communal decisions.

the heads of the Israelite families
This reiteration of leadership underscores the collective responsibility and unity among the tribes. The "Israelite families" (Hebrew: "בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל" b'nei Yisrael) refers to the entire nation, bound by covenant to God and each other. This phrase highlights the communal aspect of Israel's identity, where individual tribes and families contribute to the nation's overall well-being and adherence to God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and fertile land. It is also the name of a clan within the tribe of Manasseh.

2. Machir
The firstborn son of Manasseh, who was the son of Joseph. Machir's descendants were significant in the tribe of Manasseh.

3. Manasseh
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Joseph's firstborn son. The tribe was divided into two half-tribes, one on each side of the Jordan River.

4. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who led them out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He was the mediator between God and the people.

5. Israelite Families
The collective tribes of Israel, each with its own leaders and heads of families, who played a role in decision-making and governance.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Inheritance
Inheritance was crucial for maintaining tribal identity and continuity. It ensured that each tribe retained its allotted portion of the Promised Land.

God's Provision and Order
The laws regarding inheritance reflect God's provision and order for His people, ensuring fairness and justice within the community.

Leadership and Mediation
Moses' role as a mediator highlights the importance of godly leadership in resolving disputes and maintaining unity among God's people.

Faithfulness to God's Commands
The Israelites' concern for adhering to God's commands regarding inheritance demonstrates their commitment to living according to His will.

Community and Family Responsibility
The involvement of family heads in decision-making underscores the responsibility of families to uphold God's laws and support one another.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concern of the Gileadites in Numbers 36:1 reflect the broader theme of inheritance in the Bible, and why is this significant for us today?

2. In what ways does the role of Moses in this passage illustrate the importance of godly leadership in resolving conflicts within the community?

3. How can we apply the principles of fairness and justice seen in the inheritance laws to our own lives and communities?

4. What lessons can we learn from the involvement of family heads in this passage about the role of families in spiritual and communal life?

5. How does the issue of inheritance in Numbers 36 connect to the New Testament teachings on our spiritual inheritance in Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 17
This chapter discusses the inheritance of the tribe of Manasseh, including the daughters of Zelophehad, which is directly related to the issue addressed in Numbers 36.

Genesis 48
This chapter recounts Jacob's blessing of Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, establishing their significance among the tribes of Israel.

Deuteronomy 19
Discusses the cities of refuge, which were also a concern for land inheritance and tribal boundaries, similar to the issues in Numbers 36.