Numbers 27:9

If he has no daughter, give his inheritance to his brothers.

Study Bible

If he has no daughter
This phrase addresses the situation where a man dies without leaving a male heir, which was a significant concern in ancient Israelite society. The Hebrew word for "daughter" is "בַּת" (bat), emphasizing the importance of female offspring in the absence of sons. Historically, daughters were not typically primary heirs, reflecting the patriarchal structure of ancient Israel. However, this provision shows a progressive step in ensuring that the family inheritance remains within the family line, even if it means passing it to a daughter, should there be no sons. This reflects God's justice and care for family continuity and provision.

give his inheritance
The term "inheritance" in Hebrew is "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), which refers to the land or property passed down through generations. In the context of the Israelites, inheritance was not merely about wealth but about maintaining the tribal and familial identity tied to the Promised Land. This command underscores the importance of stewardship and the divine allocation of land among the tribes of Israel. It highlights God's covenant promise to Abraham and his descendants, ensuring that each family retains its portion of the land.

to his brothers
The Hebrew word for "brothers" is "אָחִים" (achim), which can mean literal brothers or more broadly, male relatives. This provision ensures that the inheritance remains within the extended family, preserving the family name and property. In the cultural and historical context, brothers were seen as the next logical heirs after sons and daughters, maintaining the patriarchal lineage. This reflects the biblical principle of familial responsibility and the importance of kinship ties in ancient Israelite society. It also illustrates God's order and structure within the family unit, emphasizing the value of unity and support among siblings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is receiving God's instructions regarding inheritance laws.

2. Israelites
The people of God, to whom these laws are being given as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

3. Zelophehad's Daughters
The context of this verse is part of a larger account where the daughters of Zelophehad petition Moses for their father's inheritance, as he had no sons.

4. Inheritance Laws
The specific legal instructions given by God to Moses concerning the distribution of property among the Israelites.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which the Israelites are preparing to enter and settle, necessitating clear inheritance laws.

Teaching Points

God's Justice and Fairness
The inheritance laws reflect God's concern for justice and fairness, ensuring that property remains within the family even when there are no male heirs.

Value of Family and Community
The instructions emphasize the importance of family and community in God's plan, as inheritance is meant to sustain and support the family unit.

Adaptability of God's Law
The case of Zelophehad's daughters shows that God's laws are adaptable to ensure justice, highlighting the importance of seeking God's guidance in unique situations.

Spiritual Inheritance
As believers, our ultimate inheritance is spiritual, found in Christ, and is available to all, regardless of gender or lineage.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inheritance law in Numbers 27:9 reflect God's character of justice and fairness?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of family and community support found in this passage to our modern lives?

3. How does the account of Zelophehad's daughters challenge or affirm our understanding of gender roles within the biblical context?

4. What parallels can we draw between the physical inheritance laws in Numbers and our spiritual inheritance in Christ as described in the New Testament?

5. How can we ensure that our own practices and policies reflect the adaptability and justice seen in God's instructions to Moses?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
The blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh by Jacob, which sets a precedent for inheritance and the importance of family lineage.

Joshua 17
The fulfillment of the inheritance for the daughters of Zelophehad, showing the application of the law given in Numbers.

Galatians 3
The discussion of inheritance in Christ, which transcends gender and lineage, reflecting the spiritual equality of all believers.