Numbers 27:6

and the LORD answered him,

Study Bible

And the LORD
This phrase signifies the direct involvement of Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel, in the affairs of His people. The Hebrew term for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the tetragrammaton, which is the most sacred name of God, emphasizing His eternal existence and unchanging nature. In the context of Numbers, this highlights God's personal relationship with Israel and His role as the ultimate authority and lawgiver. Historically, the Israelites understood this name as a reminder of God's faithfulness and His deliverance from Egypt, reinforcing His sovereignty and the trustworthiness of His promises.

answered
The Hebrew word used here is "עָנָה" (anah), which means to respond or reply. This indicates that God is not distant or silent but actively engages with His people. In the narrative context, God's response is crucial as it provides divine guidance and resolution to the issue at hand. This reflects the biblical theme that God is attentive to the cries and needs of His people, and He provides wisdom and direction. Theologically, it underscores the belief that God is a living God who communicates with His creation, offering assurance and clarity in times of uncertainty.

him
The pronoun "him" refers to Moses, the leader and prophet of Israel. Moses serves as the intermediary between God and the people, a role that is central to his identity throughout the Pentateuch. This highlights the importance of leadership that is attuned to God's voice and obedient to His commands. In the broader scriptural context, Moses is a type of Christ, foreshadowing the ultimate mediator between God and humanity. The personal nature of God's communication with Moses emphasizes the intimate relationship God desires with those He calls to lead His people, encouraging leaders to seek divine wisdom and guidance in their responsibilities.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who speaks directly to Moses, providing divine guidance and instruction.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He serves as the mediator between God and the Israelites.

3. The Daughters of Zelophehad
Though not mentioned in this specific verse, they are the context for God's response. They approached Moses to claim their inheritance rights, challenging the existing norms.

4. Israelites
The chosen people of God, journeying through the wilderness towards the Promised Land.

5. The Promised Land
The land promised by God to Abraham and his descendants, representing God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises.

Teaching Points

Divine Justice and Equity
God's response to the daughters of Zelophehad highlights His commitment to justice and equity. He listens to their plea and provides a solution that upholds their rights, demonstrating that God's laws are not static but responsive to the needs of His people.

The Role of Intercession
Moses serves as an intercessor, bringing the concerns of the people before God. This teaches us the importance of intercessory prayer and advocacy, encouraging believers to bring their concerns and the concerns of others to God.

Courage to Challenge Injustice
The daughters of Zelophehad show courage in challenging societal norms. This encourages believers to stand up for justice and righteousness, trusting that God hears and responds to the cries of His people.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The situation underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. Believers can trust that God will fulfill His promises, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's response to Moses in Numbers 27:6 reflect His character of justice and equity?

2. In what ways can we act as intercessors like Moses in our communities today?

3. How does the account of the daughters of Zelophehad inspire us to address issues of injustice in our own lives?

4. What are some promises of God that you are holding onto, and how does this passage encourage you to trust in His faithfulness?

5. How can we apply the principles of divine justice seen in Numbers 27 to modern-day issues of inheritance and family rights?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12
God's promise to Abraham about the land and his descendants, setting the stage for the inheritance issues addressed in Numbers 27.

Deuteronomy 21
Discusses inheritance laws, providing further context for the legal and cultural backdrop of the daughters' request.

Joshua 17
The fulfillment of the daughters of Zelophehad's request, showing God's faithfulness and justice in action.

Galatians 3
Paul speaks about the equality of all believers in Christ, echoing the theme of justice and inclusion seen in Numbers 27.