◄ Numbers 27 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Daughters of Zelophehad (Numbers 36:1–13) 1Now the daughters of Zelophehad son of Hepher, the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh, belonged to the clans of Manasseh son of Joseph. These were the names of his daughters: Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. They approached 2the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, stood before Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the whole congregation, and said, 3“Our father died in the wilderness, but he was not among the followers of Korah who gathered together against the LORD. Instead, he died because of his own sin, and he had no sons. 4Why should the name of our father disappear from his clan because he had no sons? Give us property among our father’s brothers.” 5So Moses brought their case before the LORD, 6and the LORD answered him, 7“The daughters of Zelophehad speak correctly. You certainly must give them property as an inheritance among their father’s brothers and transfer their father’s inheritance to them. 8Furthermore, you shall say to the Israelites, ‘If a man dies and leaves no son, you are to transfer his inheritance to his daughter. 9If he has no daughter, give his inheritance to his brothers. 10If he has no brothers, give his inheritance to his father’s brothers. 11And if his father has no brothers, give his inheritance to the next of kin from his clan, that he may take possession of it. This is to be a statutory ordinance for the Israelites, as the LORD has commanded Moses.’” Moses Requests a Successor (Deuteronomy 3:23–29) 12Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go up this mountain of the Abarim rangea and see the land that I have given the Israelites. 13After you have seen it, you too will be gathered to your people, as your brother Aaron was; 14for when the congregation contended in the Wilderness of Zin, both of you rebelled against My command to show My holiness in their sight regarding the waters.” Those were the waters of Meribahb in Kadesh, in the Wilderness of Zin. 15So Moses appealed to the LORD, 16“May the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation 17who will go out and come in before them, and who will lead them out and bring them in, so that the congregation of the LORD will not be like sheep without a shepherd.” Joshua to Succeed Moses (Deuteronomy 31:1–8) 18And the LORD replied to Moses, “Take Joshua son of Nun, a man with the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him. 19Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation, and commission him in their sight. 20Confer on him some of your authority, so that the whole congregation of Israel will obey him. 21He shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who will seek counsel for him before the LORD by the judgment of the Urim.c At his command, he and all the Israelites with him—the entire congregation—will go out and come in.” 22Moses did as the LORD had commanded him. He took Joshua, had him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation, 23and laid his hands on him and commissioned him, as the LORD had instructed through Moses. Footnotes: 12 a LXX Go up Mount Nebo beyond the Jordan 14 b Meribah means quarreling; see Exodus 17:7. 21 c Literally the Lights Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Numbers 27 Summary The Daughters of Zelophehad Verses 1–4 – The Daughters of Zelophehad Petition Moses Five sisters—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—step forward after the second census to challenge the loss of their deceased father’s name and land. They plead: “Why should the name of our father disappear from his clan because he had no sons?” (v. 4). Their respectful appeal reveals courage, faith in God’s promises, and confidence that divine justice will honor their family. Verses 5–11 – The LORD Issues a New Inheritance Statute Moses brings the matter before the LORD, and God answers with a ruling that secures land for the sisters and establishes a chain of succession when a man dies without a son: daughter, brothers, paternal uncles, then nearest kinsman. This ruling, “a statutory ordinance for the Israelites, as the LORD commanded Moses” (v. 11), safeguards every family’s place in the covenant land. Verses 12–14 – Moses Views the Promised Land and Learns of His Impending Death The LORD instructs Moses to ascend Mount Abarim to see the inheritance he will not enter. Moses’ earlier disobedience at Meribah excludes him from the land, yet God graciously grants him a preview, underscoring both divine holiness and mercy. Verses 15–17 – Moses Intercedes for a Successor Accepting his fate, Moses asks God to appoint a leader “who will go out and come in before them and lead them out and bring them in, so that the LORD’s congregation will not be like sheep without a shepherd” (v. 17). His final plea is for the welfare of the people rather than himself. Verses 18–23 – Joshua Commissioned as Israel’s New Shepherd The LORD selects Joshua son of Nun, “a man in whom is the Spirit” (v. 18). Moses lays hands on Joshua before Eleazar the priest and the entire assembly, publicly transferring authority. Joshua will consult the LORD through Eleazar and the Urim, ensuring that Israel’s advance remains under divine direction. Numbers 27, a significant chapter in the book of Numbers, presents critical moments in Israelite history - the plight of Zelophehad's daughters, the law of inheritance, Moses' realization of his impending death, and the subsequent appointment of Joshua as his successor. Historical Setting • Numbers 26 reports the second census on the plains of Moab, just across the Jordan from Jericho. The first generation has died; a new generation stands poised to receive Canaan. • The legal and leadership matters in Numbers 27 prepare Israel for life in the land without Moses. The chapter thus bridges wilderness wandering and conquest. • Mount Abarim (later called Mount Nebo) lies east of the Jordan; its ridge provides panoramic views of the Dead Sea, the Jordan Valley, and the Judean hills. Modern surveys confirm its suitability for Moses’ final look. Inheritance Law and Social Impact 1. Status of Women: In a patriarchal culture, land passed through sons. God’s ruling for Zelophehad’s daughters elevates the place of women by acknowledging their right to receive and hold property if no male heir exists. 2. Ripple Effects: The ruling echoes in Numbers 36, where marriage guidelines protect tribal land from transfer. It also clarifies Leviticus 25:23-34 about redemption and jubilee, ensuring ancestral plots remain intact. 3. Chain of Succession: • Son → Daughter → Brother(s) → Paternal Uncle → Nearest Kinsman This model secures continuity of land, family name, and covenant identity—critical because the land itself is God’s gift (Leviticus 25:23). Divine Justice and Mercy Displayed • Justice: God listens to marginalized voices (Psalm 68:5). He upholds equity without overturning the larger structure He ordained. • Mercy: Moses’ glimpse of Canaan—even in judgment—is an act of kindness. Psalm 90, Moses’ own prayer, longs for God to “establish the work of our hands”; here God honors his life work with a view of fulfillment. Leadership Transition Principles • Spiritual Qualifications: Joshua already serves as Moses’ aide (Exodus 24:13) and stands out for his faith at Kadesh-barnea (Numbers 14:6-9). God highlights “the Spirit” within him, not merely skill or pedigree. • Public Commission: Moses lays hands on Joshua before the assembly (cf. Deuteronomy 34:9; Acts 6:6). Visibility removes doubt, promotes unity, and models orderly succession. • Priestly Oversight: Eleazar consults the Urim (Exodus 28:30). Political and spiritual leadership remain distinct yet cooperative. • Shepherd Imagery: Moses prays that Israel will not be “like sheep without a shepherd” (v. 17), language later applied to Jesus’ compassion (Matthew 9:36). Archaeological and Geographic Notes • Mount Nebo (modern Jebel Nebo) rises 2,330 ft/710 m. On a clear day one can see the northern end of the Dead Sea, Jericho’s oasis, and the central hill country—matching the biblical vantage. • Excavations on Mount Nebo have uncovered a Byzantine church honoring Moses, underscoring the mountain’s long-standing identification. • Inheritance tablets from Nuzi (15th century BC Mesopotamia) show adopted heirs and daughters receiving property—a parallel confirming that ancient Near Eastern societies wrestled with similar succession issues. Connections to Other Scriptures • Zelophehad’s Case: Job’s daughters likewise receive an inheritance (Job 42:15). • Leadership Succession: Elijah to Elisha (2 Kings 2), Paul to Timothy (2 Timothy 2:2). • Viewing but Not Entering: Moses (Numbers 27:12-14) and the faith heroes who “welcomed [the promises] from a distance” (Hebrews 11:13). • “A Man in Whom Is the Spirit”: Phrase reappears regarding Joseph (Genesis 41:38) and Daniel (Daniel 5:11-12), highlighting Spirit-empowered wisdom. Foreshadowing of Christ • Name Parallels: Joshua (Hebrew Yehoshua, “The LORD is salvation”) prefigures Jesus (Greek Iēsous, same name). Both lead God’s people to inheritance—Joshua into Canaan, Jesus into eternal life. • Laying on of Hands: Symbol of authorization finds ultimate fulfillment when Jesus breathes the Spirit on His disciples (John 20:22). • Shepherd Motif: Jesus identifies Himself as “the good shepherd” (John 10:11), answering Moses’ final request for a true shepherd. Practical Applications for Faith Today • Speak Up with Respect: The daughters model bold yet honoring speech; believers can appeal to authority while maintaining humility. • God Values Every Family: The inheritance statute shows God’s concern for each household; modern disciples trust Him for provision and legacy. • Plan for Succession: Churches, ministries, and families should identify Spirit-filled successors long before leadership gaps appear. • Finish Faithfully: Like Moses, leaders may not see all outcomes but can rest in God’s unfolding plan, knowing that their labor is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). Key Takeaways • God hears and answers equitable petitions. • His law adapts within His unchanging moral framework to protect covenant promises. • Spiritual leadership calls for character, Spirit empowerment, public affirmation, and ongoing dependence on divine guidance. • God’s account moves forward through ordinary people—sisters fighting for their family, an aging prophet passing the torch, and a faithful assistant ready to step in—each pointing to the greater Leader who shepherds His people forever. Connections to Additional Scriptures Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. This verse echoes the theme of equality and fairness found in Numbers 27. James 1:27 Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world. This verse highlights God's heart for justice and care for the vulnerable. Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. This encouragement to Joshua parallels the courage shown by Zelophehad's daughters. Teaching Points The Courage of Zelophehad's Daughters Numbers 27:1-4 introduces us to Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah, who boldly approached Moses and the leaders to request their father's inheritance. Their courage is noteworthy, as they challenged the cultural norms of their time. God's Justice and Fairness In Numbers 27:5-7, God affirms the daughters' request, stating, The daughters of Zelophehad speak correctly. You are to give them hereditary property among their father’s brothers and transfer their father’s inheritance to them. This demonstrates God's commitment to justice and fairness. Establishment of a New Law Verses 8-11 outline a new law regarding inheritance, ensuring that if a man dies without a son, his inheritance should pass to his daughters. This law reflects God's concern for the vulnerable and His desire for equitable treatment. Leadership Transition Numbers 27:12-23 describes the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua. God instructs Moses to lay hands on Joshua, signifying the transfer of authority and the importance of continuity in leadership. Practical Applications Advocacy for Justice Like the daughters of Zelophehad, we should advocate for justice and fairness, trusting that God hears and responds to our pleas. Embrace God's Fairness Recognize that God's laws are designed to protect and provide for all His people, including the marginalized and vulnerable. Leadership and Succession Understand the importance of preparing future leaders and ensuring a smooth transition of responsibilities in any organization or community. People 1. Zelophehad He is a descendant of Manasseh, the son of Joseph. Zelophehad had no sons, only daughters, which is significant in the context of inheritance laws in ancient Israel. 2. Mahlah One of the daughters of Zelophehad. Her name, derived from the Hebrew root "מַחְלָה" (Machlah), is mentioned first among her sisters, possibly indicating her prominence or age. 3. Noah Another daughter of Zelophehad. Her name in Hebrew, "נֹעָה" (Noah), means "motion" or "rest." 4. Hoglah She is also a daughter of Zelophehad. Her name, "חָגְלָה" (Choglah), is related to the Hebrew word for "partridge." 5. Milcah Another daughter of Zelophehad. Her name, "מִלְכָּה" (Milkah), means "queen" in Hebrew. 6. Tirzah The last of Zelophehad's daughters mentioned. Her name, "תִּרְצָה" (Tirtzah), means "delight" or "pleasure." 7. Moses The leader of the Israelites and God's chosen prophet. He is responsible for bringing the daughters' case before the Lord. 8. Eleazar The son of Aaron and the high priest at the time. He plays a role in the leadership and decision-making process regarding the daughters' inheritance. 9. Joshua son of Nun He is appointed as Moses' successor to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. His name, "יְהוֹשֻׁעַ" (Yehoshua), means "The Lord is salvation." Places Numbers 27 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention a list of geographical places. Instead, it primarily deals with the inheritance laws for the daughters of Zelophehad and the commissioning of Joshua as Moses' successor. However, I can provide a brief overview of the context and any relevant locations mentioned in the broader narrative of Numbers if that would be helpful. If you have any other specific requests or need information on a different chapter or topic, please let me know! Events 1. The Daughters of Zelophehad Approach Moses The daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—come forward to present their case to Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the entire assembly at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. They are seeking an inheritance among their father's relatives because their father died without a son. ^Reference: Numbers 27:1-2 ^ 2. The Daughters' Petition The daughters state their case, explaining that their father died in the wilderness and was not part of Korah's rebellion. They ask for a possession of land among their father's brothers to preserve their father's name. ^Reference: Numbers 27:3-4 ^ 3. Moses Brings the Case Before the LORD Moses takes the matter to the LORD for guidance, demonstrating his reliance on divine wisdom for judgment. ^Reference: Numbers 27:5 ^ 4. The LORD's Response The LORD affirms the daughters' claim, instructing Moses that they are right and should indeed receive an inheritance among their father's brothers. This establishes a precedent for inheritance laws in Israel. ^Reference: Numbers 27:6-7 ^ 5. Inheritance Laws Established The LORD provides Moses with specific instructions regarding inheritance laws: if a man dies without a son, his inheritance should pass to his daughter. If no daughter, then to his brothers, then to his father's brothers, and if none, to the nearest relative in his clan. ^Reference: Numbers 27:8-11 ^ 6. The LORD Commands Moses to View the Promised Land The LORD instructs Moses to go up Mount Abarim to see the land He has given to the Israelites. This is a significant moment as it foreshadows Moses' impending death. ^Reference: Numbers 27:12 ^ 7. Moses' Request for a Successor Aware of his approaching death, Moses asks the LORD to appoint a leader over the congregation to guide them, so they will not be like sheep without a shepherd. ^Reference: Numbers 27:15-17 ^ 8. Joshua Appointed as Moses' Successor The LORD instructs Moses to take Joshua son of Nun, a man with the Spirit, and lay his hands on him. Joshua is to be presented before Eleazar the priest and the entire assembly, and Moses is to commission him in their sight. ^Reference: Numbers 27:18-20 ^ 9. Instructions for Joshua's Leadership Joshua is to stand before Eleazar the priest, who will obtain decisions for him by the judgment of the Urim before the LORD. This ensures that Joshua's leadership is guided by divine direction. ^Reference: Numbers 27:21 ^ 10. Moses Obeys the LORD's Command Moses does as the LORD commands, laying his hands on Joshua and commissioning him as instructed, ensuring a smooth transition of leadership. ^Reference: Numbers 27:22-23 ^ Lessons from Numbers 27 1. The Importance of Inheritance In Numbers 27, we see the daughters of Zelophehad approaching Moses with a bold request for their father’s inheritance. This teaches us the importance of inheritance—not just in terms of land or possessions, but in the spiritual legacy we leave behind. As believers, we are called to pass down our faith and values to the next generation. "A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children" (Proverbs 13:22). Let us strive to leave a legacy that reflects our faith in Christ. 2. Courage to Speak Up The daughters of Zelophehad demonstrated remarkable courage by approaching Moses and the leaders of Israel to plead their case. Their boldness reminds us that we should not be afraid to speak up for what is right, even when it goes against the norm. "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline" (2 Timothy 1:7). Let us be courageous in standing up for justice and truth. 3. God’s Fairness and Justice God’s response to the daughters’ request shows His fairness and justice. He instructed Moses to grant them their father’s inheritance, setting a precedent for future generations. This reminds us that God is a just judge who cares about fairness. "He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the loving devotion of the LORD" (Psalm 33:5). We can trust in His perfect justice in all situations. 4. The Role of Women in God’s Plan The story of Zelophehad’s daughters highlights the significant role women play in God’s plan. Their actions led to a change in the inheritance laws of Israel, showing that God values the contributions of women. "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28). Let us recognize and celebrate the vital role women have in the Kingdom of God. 5. The Importance of Family The daughters’ plea was rooted in their desire to preserve their father’s name and legacy. This underscores the importance of family and the bonds that hold us together. "Honor your father and mother" (Ephesians 6:2) is a commandment that reminds us to value and respect our family relationships. Let us cherish and nurture these bonds as a reflection of God’s love. 6. God’s Guidance in Decision-Making Moses sought God’s guidance when faced with the daughters’ request, showing us the importance of seeking divine wisdom in our decisions. "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5). Let us rely on God’s wisdom to guide us in all our choices. 7. The Power of Unity The daughters of Zelophehad approached Moses as a united front, demonstrating the power of unity in achieving a common goal. "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!" (Psalm 133:1). Unity strengthens our efforts and reflects the unity of the body of Christ. Let us work together in harmony to fulfill God’s purposes. 8. God’s Provision for the Future By granting the daughters their inheritance, God provided for their future and ensured their security. This reminds us that God is our provider, and He cares for our needs. "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). We can trust in His provision for our lives. 9. The Significance of Obedience Moses obeyed God’s command to grant the daughters their inheritance, demonstrating the importance of obedience to God’s instructions. "Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it" (Luke 11:28). Obedience to God’s Word brings blessings and aligns us with His will. 10. God’s Unchanging Nature The story in Numbers 27 reveals God’s consistent character—He is just, fair, and compassionate. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). We can take comfort in knowing that God’s nature does not change, and His promises remain steadfast. Let us hold fast to our faith in His unchanging love and grace. Topics 1. The Daughters of Zelophehad (Numbers 27:1-11) This section addresses the case of Zelophehad's daughters, who approach Moses and the leaders to claim their father's inheritance since he had no sons. The Lord instructs Moses to grant their request, establishing a legal precedent for inheritance rights for daughters. The Hebrew term "nachalah" (נַחֲלָה) is used for "inheritance," emphasizing the importance of land and family legacy in Israelite society. "The daughters of Zelophehad son of Hepher, the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh, belonged to the clans of Manasseh son of Joseph. The names of the daughters were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah." (Numbers 27:1) 2. Joshua Appointed as Moses' Successor (Numbers 27:12-23) God instructs Moses to go up Mount Abarim to see the Promised Land before he dies. Moses, concerned for the people, asks God to appoint a leader to succeed him. God chooses Joshua, son of Nun, and instructs Moses to lay hands on him, signifying the transfer of leadership. The Hebrew word "yad" (יָד) for "hand" symbolizes authority and blessing. "So the LORD said to Moses, 'Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hands on him.'" (Numbers 27:18) Themes 1. Inheritance Rights for Daughters Numbers 27 begins with the daughters of Zelophehad approaching Moses to request an inheritance in their father's name since he had no sons. This theme highlights the importance of justice and fairness in inheritance laws. The Hebrew root for "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, ^nachalah^) emphasizes the concept of a possession or heritage that is passed down. 2. Divine Justice and Equity God instructs Moses to grant the daughters' request, establishing a precedent for inheritance rights for women in Israel. This theme underscores God's concern for justice and equity, ensuring that all members of the community are treated fairly. The decision reflects God's character as just and righteous. 3. Leadership Transition The chapter also addresses the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua. God tells Moses to appoint Joshua as his successor, indicating the importance of orderly leadership succession. The Hebrew word for "appoint" (צָוָה, ^tzavah^) conveys the idea of command or commission, emphasizing the divine authority behind the transition. 4. Obedience to God's Command Moses' obedience in laying hands on Joshua and commissioning him before the congregation is a key theme. It demonstrates the importance of following God's instructions precisely. The act of laying hands (סָמַךְ, ^samach^) signifies the transfer of authority and blessing, rooted in Hebrew tradition. 5. Community and Leadership Accountability The public commissioning of Joshua before Eleazar the priest and the entire assembly highlights the theme of accountability in leadership. It ensures that the community witnesses and acknowledges the new leader, fostering trust and continuity. The Hebrew term for "assembly" (עֵדָה, ^edah^) refers to the congregation or community, emphasizing collective responsibility. Prayer Points Pray for courage to stand up for justice and fairness in our communities. Ask God to help us embrace His laws and principles, recognizing His wisdom and fairness. Pray for wisdom and guidance in leadership transitions, both in personal and community contexts. Seek God's heart for the marginalized and vulnerable, asking for opportunities to serve and support them. Answering Tough Questions 1. Numbers 27:1–11: If God’s law was perfect, why did He only address women’s inheritance rights after Zelophehad’s daughters complained? 2. Numbers 27:12–14: Why is Moses barred from entering the Promised Land for striking the rock, which seems like a minor offense? 3. Numbers 27:18–23: Where is the historical or archaeological evidence that Joshua’s appointment actually took place as described? 4. Numbers 27:3–4: Why isn’t more detail given about Zelophehad’s sin if it was important enough to affect his family’s inheritance? 5. Numbers 27:1–11 compared to Deuteronomy 21:15–17: Why do inheritance rules seem to evolve, potentially contradicting the idea of unchanging divine law? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the request of Zelophehad's daughters reflect on their faith and courage? 2. How can the story of Zelophehad's daughters inspire discussions about gender equality today? 3. How does the law of inheritance, as presented in Numbers 27, relate to modern laws of inheritance? 4. What qualities do you think made Joshua a fitting successor to Moses? 5. How does Moses' acceptance of his fate reflect his trust in God's plan? 6. How can Moses' succession planning be applied to leadership transitions in modern society? 7. How does Numbers 27 reflect the theme of obedience to God's commands? 8. How did God's response to Zelophehad's daughters challenge societal norms of the time? 9. How does Moses' act of presenting Joshua before Eleazar and the community symbolize the transfer of leadership? 10. In what ways can the stories in Numbers 27 inspire individuals and societies to seek justice and fairness? 11. How can we respond today when societal laws or norms seem to conflict with God's justice? 12. How can we apply the lessons of faith and courage from Zelophehad's daughters in our lives? 13. How do we balance acceptance of our fate (like Moses) with the courage to challenge the status quo (like Zelophehad's daughters)? 14. In what ways can we encourage more equitable distributions of inheritance in our own communities? 15. How do we discern when it's time to pass on responsibilities or roles to others? 16. What qualities should we look for in leaders, as exemplified by Joshua? 17. What can we learn from God's response to Moses' plea for a successor? 18. How does Numbers 27 contribute to our understanding of God's character, particularly His fairness and justice? 19. How does the leadership transition from Moses to Joshua inform the leadership changes we see in church or society today? 20. Reflecting on Numbers 27, how can we actively uphold justice in our own contexts? 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