Numbers 36:2

saying, "When the LORD commanded my lord to give the land as an inheritance to the Israelites by lot, He also commanded him to give the inheritance of our brother Zelophehad to his daughters.

Study Bible

They said
This phrase introduces the speakers, who are the leaders of the family of Gilead, descendants of Manasseh. In the Hebrew context, the act of speaking often carries weight and authority, especially when it involves leaders or elders. The Hebrew verb "אמר" (amar) is used here, which is a common verb for speaking but can also imply a formal declaration or request. This sets the stage for a serious and significant discussion regarding inheritance laws.

The LORD commanded
The use of "The LORD" (YHWH) emphasizes the divine authority behind the command. In the Hebrew tradition, a command from the LORD is not merely a suggestion but a binding directive that must be followed. The Hebrew word "צוה" (tsavah) for "commanded" indicates an authoritative order, underscoring the importance of obedience to God's will. This reflects the theocratic nature of Israelite society, where God's commands were the ultimate law.

my lord
This phrase refers to Moses, who is addressed with respect and honor. The Hebrew word "אדני" (adoni) is used, which is a term of respect often used for leaders or those in authority. This highlights the hierarchical structure within the Israelite community, where Moses is seen as the intermediary between God and the people.

to give the land as an inheritance by lot
The concept of land inheritance is central to the Israelite identity, as the land was seen as a divine gift. The Hebrew word "נחלה" (nachalah) for "inheritance" signifies a permanent possession, a legacy passed down through generations. The use of "by lot" (גורל, goral) indicates a divinely guided process, as casting lots was believed to reveal God's will. This method ensured fairness and divine involvement in the distribution of the Promised Land.

to the Israelites
This phrase underscores the collective identity of the people of Israel. The Hebrew term "בני ישראל" (Bnei Yisrael) refers to the descendants of Jacob, emphasizing their unity and shared heritage. The land was not just for individuals but for the entire nation, reinforcing the communal aspect of God's covenant with Israel.

My lord was also commanded by the LORD
Reiterating the divine command to Moses, this phrase emphasizes the continuity and consistency of God's instructions. It reflects the importance of adhering to God's commands as communicated through His chosen leader, Moses. This repetition underscores the seriousness of the matter at hand.

to give the inheritance of our brother Zelophehad to his daughters
This specific command addresses the unique situation of Zelophehad's daughters, who were granted the right to inherit their father's land in the absence of male heirs. The Hebrew name "צלפחד" (Tzelophehad) is significant, as his case set a precedent for inheritance laws in Israel. The mention of "daughters" (בנות, banot) highlights the progressive nature of this command, as it provided rights to women in a patriarchal society. This reflects God's justice and care for all members of the community, ensuring that no family would lose their inheritance due to a lack of male heirs.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zelophehad's Daughters
The daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—are central figures in this passage. They approached Moses to secure their inheritance rights, as their father had no sons.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who was responsible for implementing God's laws and commands, including the distribution of the land.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel who provided the laws and commands regarding inheritance and land distribution.

4. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were receiving their inheritance in the Promised Land.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which was being divided among the tribes of Israel as their inheritance.

Teaching Points

God's Justice and Fairness
God's laws ensure justice and fairness, even in inheritance matters. The case of Zelophehad's daughters shows God's concern for equity and the rights of individuals, regardless of gender.

The Importance of Advocacy
The daughters of Zelophehad serve as an example of advocating for one's rights within the framework of God's law. Their respectful approach to Moses demonstrates the importance of seeking justice through proper channels.

Inheritance in Christ
Just as the daughters of Zelophehad were granted an inheritance, believers in Christ are assured of their spiritual inheritance. This passage can remind us of the eternal inheritance we have through faith in Jesus.

Obedience to God's Commands
Moses' adherence to God's command regarding the daughters' inheritance underscores the importance of obedience to God's Word. It challenges us to faithfully follow God's instructions in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Zelophehad's daughters challenge or affirm your understanding of God's justice and fairness?

2. In what ways can we advocate for justice and fairness in our communities, following the example of Zelophehad's daughters?

3. How does the concept of inheritance in Numbers 36:2 relate to our spiritual inheritance in Christ as described in the New Testament?

4. What can we learn from Moses' obedience to God's commands in this passage, and how can we apply this to our daily walk with God?

5. How does the resolution of the daughters' request in Numbers 36:2 encourage us to trust in God's provision and timing for our needs?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 27:1-11
This passage provides the background to Numbers 36:2, where the daughters of Zelophehad first approached Moses to request their inheritance rights.

Joshua 17:3-6
This passage recounts the fulfillment of the daughters' request, showing the practical application of God's command regarding inheritance.

Galatians 3:28
This New Testament verse highlights the principle of equality in Christ, which can be seen as a spiritual parallel to the daughters' right to inheritance.