Joshua 17:6

because the daughters of Manasseh received an inheritance among his sons. And the land of Gilead belonged to the rest of the sons of Manasseh.

Study Bible

because the daughters of Manasseh
This phrase highlights a significant moment in biblical history where the daughters of Zelophehad, who were of the tribe of Manasseh, were granted an inheritance. This was a groundbreaking event in the ancient Near Eastern context, where inheritance typically passed through male descendants. The Hebrew root for "daughters" (בָּנוֹת, banot) emphasizes the familial and legal recognition of women in this context, showcasing God's justice and provision for all His people, regardless of gender.

received an inheritance
The concept of "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah) in Hebrew culture was deeply tied to identity, legacy, and divine promise. It was not merely about land or property but about participating in the covenantal blessings promised to Abraham and his descendants. The daughters' receipt of an inheritance underscores the inclusivity of God's promises and the importance of faithfulness to His commands, as seen in Numbers 27 when they first approached Moses with their request.

among his sons
This phrase indicates the integration of the daughters' inheritance with that of the male descendants, symbolizing equality and unity within the tribe. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God's impartiality and the breaking down of societal barriers. The Hebrew word for "sons" (בָּנִים, banim) often represents descendants or members of a group, emphasizing the collective identity of the tribe of Manasseh.

The land of Gilead
Gilead was a region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and fertile land. It held strategic and economic importance in ancient Israel. The mention of Gilead here serves as a geographical marker, reminding readers of the tangible blessings and responsibilities associated with the inheritance. It also connects to the broader narrative of Israel's conquest and settlement in the Promised Land, fulfilling God's promises to the patriarchs.

belonged to the rest of the sons of Manasseh
This phrase delineates the distribution of land among the tribe of Manasseh, ensuring that all members received their due portion. The Hebrew root for "belonged" (הָיָה, hayah) implies possession and fulfillment, reinforcing the idea that God's promises are realized in the lives of His people. It also highlights the orderly and just allocation of resources, reflecting God's character and the importance of stewardship in the community of faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Daughters of Manasseh
These are the female descendants of Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel. They are significant because they received an inheritance, which was unusual in the patriarchal society of ancient Israel.

2. 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.

3. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and rugged terrain. It was part of the inheritance given to the tribe of Manasseh.

4. Inheritance
In the context of ancient Israel, inheritance typically referred to the allocation of land among the tribes. It was a crucial aspect of maintaining family lineage and tribal identity.

5. Descendants of Manasseh
Refers to the broader family and tribal group that descended from Manasseh, including both male and female members.

Teaching Points

Equality in God's Kingdom
The inclusion of the daughters of Manasseh in the inheritance highlights God's recognition of equality and justice, even in a patriarchal society. This serves as a reminder that God's kingdom transcends human social structures.

Faith and Action
The daughters of Manasseh, like Zelophehad's daughters, took action to claim their inheritance. This teaches us the importance of faith coupled with action in pursuing God's promises.

God's Faithfulness
The allocation of land to the daughters of Manasseh demonstrates God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people, regardless of societal norms.

Breaking Cultural Norms
The account encourages believers to challenge cultural norms that are not aligned with God's principles of justice and equality.

Inheritance in Christ
Just as the daughters of Manasseh received a physical inheritance, believers today have a spiritual inheritance in Christ, which is available to all, regardless of gender or social status.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the daughters of Manasseh receiving an inheritance challenge the cultural norms of their time, and what can we learn from this for today's society?

2. In what ways does the account of the daughters of Manasseh receiving an inheritance connect with the New Testament teachings on equality in Christ?

3. How can we apply the principle of faith coupled with action, as demonstrated by the daughters of Manasseh, in our own lives today?

4. What does the allocation of land to the daughters of Manasseh teach us about God's faithfulness and His promises?

5. How can the concept of inheritance in the Old Testament help us understand our spiritual inheritance in Christ as described in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 27
This chapter recounts the account of Zelophehad's daughters, who appealed to Moses for the right to inherit their father's land. This precedent set the stage for the daughters of Manasseh to receive their inheritance.

Galatians 3
Paul speaks about the equality of all believers in Christ, which echoes the breaking of traditional gender roles seen in the inheritance rights of the daughters of Manasseh.

Deuteronomy 21
Discusses laws of inheritance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining family lineage and property within the tribe.