◄ Numbers 36 ►
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Zelophehad’s Daughters Marry (Numbers 27:1–11) 1Now 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, 2saying, “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to his daughters. 3But if they marry any of the men from the other tribes of Israel, their inheritance will be withdrawn from the portion of our fathers and added to the tribe into which they marry. So our allotted inheritance would be taken away. 4And when the Jubilee for the Israelites comes, their inheritance will be added to the tribe into which they marry and taken away from the tribe of our fathers.” 5So at the word of the LORD, Moses commanded the Israelites: “The tribe of the sons of Joseph speaks correctly. 6This is what the LORD has commanded concerning the daughters of Zelophehad: They may marry anyone they please, provided they marry within a clan of the tribe of their father. 7No inheritance in Israel may be transferred from tribe to tribe, because each of the Israelites is to retain the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers. 8Every daughter who possesses an inheritance from any Israelite tribe must marry within a clan of the tribe of her father, so that every Israelite will possess the inheritance of his fathers. 9No inheritance may be transferred from one tribe to another, for each tribe of Israel must retain its inheritance.” 10So the daughters of Zelophehad did as the LORD had commanded Moses. 11Mahlah, Tirzah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Noah, the daughters of Zelophehad, were married to cousins on their father’s side. 12They married within the clans of the descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph, and their inheritance remained within the tribe of their father’s clan. 13These are the commandments and ordinances that the LORD gave the Israelites through Moses on the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho. 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 36 Summary Zelophehad's Daughters Marry Verses 1–4 – The Tribal Leaders’ Concern The heads of the clans of Gilead, from the tribe of Manasseh, approach Moses and the leaders. They fear that if the daughters of Zelophehad marry outside their tribe, the land they inherit will pass to another tribe when the Jubilee year comes. Their appeal centers on keeping tribal boundaries intact for the sake of Israel’s future generations. Verses 5–9 – God’s Clarification on Inheritance Moses seeks the LORD, who answers that the daughters must marry within their father’s tribal clan. “So no inheritance will transfer from one tribe to another, for each tribe of the Israelites must adhere to its own inheritance” (Numbers 36:9). The ruling protects both the daughters’ rights and the tribe’s portion. Verses 10–12 – The Daughters’ Obedience and Marriages Mahlah, Tirzah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Noah follow the LORD’s command. They marry their cousins—men from the clans of Manasseh—so their land remains inside their tribe. By acting quickly, they model faith and respect for the divine order. Verse 13 – Conclusion of the Wilderness Commands “These are the commandments and ordinances the LORD gave the Israelites through Moses on the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho” (Numbers 36:13). With that sentence, both the chapter and the entire book close, sealing forty years of wilderness instruction. Numbers 36 serves as the concluding chapter of the Book of Numbers in the Old Testament of the Bible. This chapter presents a unique case of property rights and inheritance, showcasing a scenario where tribal inheritance was at risk due to inter-tribal marriages. The narrative involves Zelophehad's daughters, Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the leaders of the tribes, as they address the issue of land inheritance and maintain tribal boundaries within the Israelite community. Historical Background • Numbers 36 is set in the plains of Moab, just before Israel crosses the Jordan. After forty years, the camp now hears final clarifications on social order. The issue addressed is practical—land and marriage—but it also protects Israel’s covenant identity. • Tribal land was more than real estate; it represented God’s promise (Genesis 12:7). Losing land would feel like losing part of that promise. The Daughters of Zelophehad: A Second Look • Their earlier plea for land (Numbers 27) showed courage; this follow-up shows cooperation. They do not argue for total independence but willingly stay inside divine guidelines. • Their account prefigures later biblical heroines, like Ruth, who also guards inheritance lines through loyal marriage (Ruth 4:9–10). Marriage within the Clan • Ancient Near Eastern law often pushed daughters to marry internally to preserve family property. Israel’s law reaffirms that practice while rooting it in God’s word, not mere custom. • Later prophets stress similar themes of faithfulness inside the covenant family (Malachi 2:15). Inheritance Laws in Ancient Israel 1. Land came from God (Leviticus 25:23). 2. Every Jubilee (50th year) land reverted to the original family (Leviticus 25:10). 3. If a man died without sons, daughters inherited (Numbers 27:8). 4. To prevent boundary loss, marriage must honor tribal lines (Numbers 36:6–9). These steps balanced justice for individuals with stability for the nation. Archaeological Insights • Clay tablets from Nuzi (15th century BC) show similar rules about daughters as heirs and in-clan marriage. Israel’s law, however, ties those rules directly to the LORD, giving them moral weight. • Boundary stones from the Iron Age in Canaan remind us how serious land borders were. Tampering with them could invite social turmoil. Connections to the New Testament • Galatians 3:28 says, “There is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Spiritual standing is equal, echoing how Zelophehad’s daughters receive land rights. • Yet stewardship remains: believers are urged to respect the “inheritance that can never perish” (1 Peter 1:4). Just as Israel guarded land, Christians guard faith. Lessons for Today • God values both individual dignity and community stability. Rights and responsibilities travel together. • Obedience—even in matters that seem minor—has generational impact. • Wise leaders listen, seek God’s guidance, then answer clearly, just as Moses does. Structure and Literary Features • The chapter forms a short legal case: petition (vv. 1–4), divine ruling (vv. 5–9), compliance (vv. 10–12), final summary (v. 13). • Repetition of “inheritance” (nine times) drives the theme home: the land is sacred trust. Geographic Note: The Land of Gilead • East of the Jordan, the hills of Gilead offer rich pasture. By the time of Numbers 36, half the tribe of Manasseh had settled there (Numbers 32:39–42). • Future battles under Gideon (Judges 7) and Jephthah (Judges 11) occur nearby, showing how tribal lands keep shaping Israel’s story. Tribal Unity and Identity • The solution in Numbers 36 prevents envy between tribes, which later tears the kingdom apart (1 Kings 12). • By protecting boundaries early, God preempts division and keeps the people focused on the upcoming conquest under Joshua. Closing Thought Numbers ends on a note of ordered hope. Every family knows its place, every border is clear, and Israel is ready to enter the land promised to Abraham. Connections to Additional Scriptures Joshua 17:3-6 Further details on the daughters of Zelophehad receiving their inheritance, reinforcing God's faithfulness to His promises. Galatians 3:28 Highlights the equality of all believers in Christ, transcending cultural and societal boundaries, much like the inclusion of the daughters in inheritance rights. Proverbs 3:5-6 Encourages trust in the LORD's wisdom and guidance, as demonstrated by the daughters' reliance on God's command. Teaching Points The Context of Inheritance Numbers 36 addresses the issue of inheritance for the daughters of Zelophehad, who had no brothers. This situation raised concerns about land inheritance within the tribes of Israel. God's Command The LORD instructed Moses that the daughters could marry anyone they wished, provided they married within their father's tribal clan, ensuring that the inheritance would not transfer between tribes (Numbers 36:6-9). Obedience to God's Law The daughters of Zelophehad obeyed the LORD's command, marrying within their tribe, demonstrating their commitment to God's instructions (Numbers 36:10-12). Preservation of Tribal Inheritance This chapter emphasizes the importance of maintaining the tribal boundaries and inheritance as initially allotted by God, reflecting His order and provision for His people. Practical Applications Trust in God's Justice Just as God provided a fair solution for the daughters of Zelophehad, we can trust that His ways are just and equitable in our lives. Obedience to God's Commands The daughters' obedience serves as a model for us to follow God's instructions, even when they challenge societal norms or personal desires. Value of Community and Heritage The preservation of tribal inheritance reminds us to value our spiritual heritage and community, ensuring that we contribute to its continuity and strength. People 1. Moses The leader of the Israelites who is responsible for conveying God's laws and judgments to the people. In this chapter, he communicates God's command regarding the inheritance of Zelophehad's daughters. 2. The Heads of the Families of the Clan of Gilead These are the leaders from the tribe of Manasseh, specifically from the clan of Gilead, who approach Moses with concerns about inheritance laws affecting their tribe. 3. Zelophehad A member of the tribe of Manasseh who had no sons, only daughters. His situation prompted the initial inquiry about inheritance rights for daughters. 4. The Daughters of Zelophehad These are the women directly affected by the inheritance laws. Their names are Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. They are granted the right to inherit their father's property, provided they marry within their father's tribal clan to keep the inheritance within the tribe. 5. Eleazar the Priest Although not directly mentioned in this chapter, Eleazar is the high priest during this time and would have been involved in the legal and religious aspects of such decisions. 6. The LORD (YHWH) God, who provides the commandment regarding the inheritance laws to Moses. His instructions ensure that the inheritance remains within the tribe, preserving the tribal allotments given to the Israelites. The chapter emphasizes the importance of maintaining tribal inheritance and the role of women in the inheritance process, reflecting the cultural and legal context of ancient Israel. The Hebrew roots of the names and terms used in this chapter highlight the significance of family and tribal identity in the Israelite community. Places Numbers 36 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any places by name. This chapter primarily deals with the inheritance laws concerning the daughters of Zelophehad and does not focus on geographical locations. Therefore, there are no places to list from this chapter. If you have any other questions or need information on a different chapter or topic, feel free to ask! Events 1. Concern of the Heads of the Families of Gilead The chapter begins with the leaders of the families of Gilead, descendants of Joseph, approaching Moses and the leaders of Israel. They express concern about the inheritance of Zelophehad's daughters, fearing that if they marry outside their tribe, their inheritance will be lost to other tribes (Numbers 36:1-4). 2. Moses' Command from the LORD Moses responds to the concern by conveying the LORD's command. He instructs that the daughters of Zelophehad may marry anyone they wish, but they must marry within their father's tribal clan to ensure that the inheritance remains within the tribe (Numbers 36:5-7). 3. Preservation of Tribal Inheritance The passage emphasizes the importance of preserving the inheritance within the tribes of Israel. It is stated that no inheritance should pass from one tribe to another, ensuring that each tribe retains its allotted inheritance (Numbers 36:8-9). 4. Compliance of Zelophehad's Daughters The daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Tirzah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Noah—comply with the command. They marry their cousins within the tribe of Manasseh, the son of Joseph, thus preserving their inheritance within their father's tribe (Numbers 36:10-12). 5. Conclusion of the Commandments and Ordinances The chapter concludes by summarizing that these are the commandments and ordinances given by the LORD through Moses to the Israelites on the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho (Numbers 36:13). Lessons from Numbers 36 1. The Importance of Inheritance In Numbers 36, we see the daughters of Zelophehad approaching Moses with a concern about their inheritance. This highlights the importance of inheritance, not just in terms of land, but also in spiritual legacy. As believers, we are reminded of our inheritance in Christ, which is imperishable and eternal. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 1:3). 2. Upholding Justice and Fairness The chapter underscores the need for justice and fairness in the distribution of inheritance. The daughters' plea was heard, and a fair solution was provided. This teaches us to seek justice in our dealings and to ensure fairness in our communities, reflecting God's just nature. "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8). 3. The Role of Women in God's Plan The daughters of Zelophehad were bold in their request, and their actions led to a change in the law. This demonstrates that women have a significant role in God's plan and can be agents of change. It reminds us that in Christ, there is neither male nor female, for we are all one in Him (Galatians 3:28). 4. The Value of Community Counsel Moses sought the counsel of the Lord and the community's leaders to resolve the issue. This teaches us the value of seeking wise counsel and making decisions in community. "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed" (Proverbs 15:22). 5. Obedience to God's Commands The resolution of the daughters' request required obedience to God's commands. This reminds us of the importance of obedience in our walk with God. "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15). 6. The Significance of Family and Tribe The chapter emphasizes the importance of family and tribal identity in maintaining the inheritance. This reflects the biblical principle of honoring our family and heritage while recognizing our ultimate identity in Christ. "Honor your father and mother" (Ephesians 6:2). 7. God's Provision for All God's response to the daughters' request shows His provision for all His people, regardless of gender or status. This reassures us that God cares for each of us and provides for our needs. "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). 8. The Power of Faithful Persistence The daughters' persistence in seeking justice is a testament to the power of faithful persistence. It encourages us to persist in prayer and in seeking God's will, trusting that He hears us. "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you" (Matthew 7:7). 9. The Interconnectedness of God's People The resolution required consideration of the broader community, highlighting the interconnectedness of God's people. We are reminded that our actions affect others and that we are called to live in harmony. "So in Christ we who are many are one body, and each member belongs to one another" (Romans 12:5). 10. Trusting in God's Sovereignty Ultimately, the chapter teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty. He orchestrates events for His purposes and ensures that His will is accomplished. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11). Topics 1. Inheritance Concerns of the Daughters of Zelophehad The chapter begins with the leaders of the tribe of Manasseh approaching Moses with a concern about the inheritance of Zelophehad's daughters. They worry that if these daughters marry outside their tribe, their inheritance will be transferred to another tribe. This concern is rooted in maintaining the integrity and continuity of tribal inheritances as originally allocated by God. 2. Moses' Command Based on God's Instruction Moses responds to the concern by conveying God's command: "The daughters of Zelophehad may marry anyone they please, as long as they marry within the clan of their father’s tribe" (Numbers 36:6). This directive ensures that the inheritance remains within the tribe, preserving the tribal boundaries established by God. 3. Principle of Tribal Inheritance The chapter emphasizes the principle that "No inheritance in Israel is to pass from tribe to tribe, for each Israelite tribe is to keep the land it inherits" (Numbers 36:7). This principle underscores the importance of maintaining the divinely ordained distribution of land among the tribes of Israel. 4. Obedience of Zelophehad's Daughters The daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Tirzah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Noah—comply with the command and marry within their father's clan, the descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph. Their obedience reflects a respect for God's law and the preservation of their tribal inheritance. 5. Conclusion of the Inheritance Laws The chapter concludes with a reiteration of the laws concerning inheritance, as given by the Lord through Moses. This serves as a final affirmation of the importance of adhering to God's commands regarding the distribution and retention of the land among the tribes of Israel. In this chapter, the Hebrew term for "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, ^nachalah^) is significant, as it conveys the idea of a possession or heritage that is divinely assigned and meant to be preserved within the family and tribe. The chapter highlights the balance between individual rights and communal responsibilities within the covenant community of Israel. Themes 1. Inheritance and Tribal Integrity Numbers 36 addresses the issue of inheritance within the tribes of Israel, emphasizing the importance of maintaining tribal boundaries. The daughters of Zelophehad are instructed to marry within their father's tribe to ensure that "no inheritance of the Israelites shall pass from tribe to tribe" (Numbers 36:7). This theme underscores the significance of preserving the God-given land allocations among the tribes, reflecting the Hebrew concept of "nachalah" (נַחֲלָה), meaning inheritance or possession. 2. Obedience to Divine Command The chapter highlights the importance of adhering to God's commands as given through Moses. The daughters of Zelophehad comply with the directive to marry within their tribe, demonstrating obedience to God's law. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew word "shama" (שָׁמַע), meaning to hear or obey, as seen in their compliance with the Lord's command through Moses (Numbers 36:10-12). 3. Preservation of Family Lineage The narrative emphasizes the preservation of family lineage and property within the tribe of Manasseh. By marrying within their tribe, the daughters ensure that their father's name and inheritance remain intact. This theme is connected to the Hebrew concept of "mishpachah" (מִשְׁפָּחָה), meaning family or clan, highlighting the importance of family continuity in Israelite society. 4. Divine Justice and Equity The resolution provided in Numbers 36 reflects God's justice and equity in addressing the concerns of the daughters of Zelophehad while maintaining tribal integrity. The solution balances individual rights with communal responsibilities, illustrating the Hebrew principle of "tzedek" (צֶדֶק), meaning righteousness or justice. 5. Role of Women in God's Plan The chapter acknowledges the role of women in God's plan for Israel, as the daughters of Zelophehad are given a voice and their concerns are addressed by Moses and the leaders. This theme highlights the value and agency of women within the covenant community, aligning with the broader biblical narrative of God's inclusive purposes. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Justice Praise God for His fair and just nature, as seen in His provision for the daughters of Zelophehad. Commitment to Obedience Pray for the strength and willingness to obey God's commands, even when they challenge our understanding or desires. Preservation of Spiritual Heritage Ask God to help us value and preserve our spiritual heritage, contributing positively to our faith communities. As we reflect on Numbers 36, may we be inspired by the daughters of Zelophehad to trust in God's justice, obey His commands, and cherish our spiritual heritage. Answering Tough Questions 1. How does Numbers 36:6–9 align with earlier accounts of inter-tribal marriages that appear unregulated or unrestricted? 2. Is there any archaeological or historical evidence outside the Bible to confirm or corroborate these specific inheritance rules in Numbers 36? 3. Why does Numbers 36 emphasize preserving land within a tribe if elsewhere (e.g., Leviticus 25:23) all land is deemed to belong ultimately to God? 4. If women were required to marry within their tribe in Numbers 36, how do we reconcile this with other passages (e.g., Ruth) where foreign marriages seem acceptable? 5. Could the strict inheritance stipulations in Numbers 36 have led to conflicting genealogical records, and is there any textual or historical proof of such inconsistencies? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Why was the concern raised by the leaders of Zelophehad's daughters' tribe significant in the context of land inheritance? 2. What does this chapter tell us about the status of women's rights during biblical times? 3. How does this chapter reflect the notion of fairness and justice? 4. Why was it important for the daughters of Zelophehad to marry within their own tribe? 5. How does the obedience of Zelophehad's daughters serve as an example for us today? 6. Why is preserving tribal or family inheritance important in the context of the Bible? How does this relate to our understanding of inheritance today? 7. How can we apply the principles of justice and fairness presented in this chapter to contemporary situations? 8. What is the significance of God's commandment regarding marriage within the same tribal clan in today's society? 9. How does Numbers 36 reflect the balance between individual rights and communal integrity? 10. How can the lessons in Numbers 36 guide our understanding and resolution of modern disputes over inheritance? 11. What is the relevance of Moses' role in this chapter for leaders today? 12. How does the principle of keeping inheritance within a tribe or family affect the distribution of wealth in society, both then and now? 13. What lessons can we learn from the interaction between the Israelite leaders and Moses in this chapter? 14. How does the narrative in Numbers 36 reinforce the importance of obedience to God's commands? 15. How can the issue of inheritance, as presented in this chapter, inform our understanding of gender, family, and property in our society? 16. If you were in the place of Zelophehad's daughters, how would you react to the rules about inheritance? 17. What does this chapter teach us about handling controversial issues within a community? 18. If you were a leader of a tribe, how would you address similar concerns about land and property? 19. How can the principles presented in Numbers 36 guide us in our decision-making processes? 20. How does this chapter shape your understanding of the intersection between law, justice, and religion? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions