Numbers 36:12

They married within the clans of the descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph, and their inheritance remained within the tribe of their father's clan.

Study Bible

They married within the clans of the descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph
This phrase highlights the importance of maintaining tribal inheritance within the Israelite community. The daughters of Zelophehad, who were from the tribe of Manasseh, were instructed to marry within their own tribe to ensure that their inheritance would not be transferred to another tribe. This reflects the broader biblical principle of preserving the land allocations given to each tribe as described in Numbers 27:1-11. Manasseh, being one of the sons of Joseph, was one of the half-tribes that received a portion of land on both sides of the Jordan River, emphasizing the significance of land inheritance in Israelite society. This also underscores the patriarchal structure of ancient Israel, where lineage and inheritance were passed through the male line.

and their inheritance remained within the tribe of their father’s clan
This part of the verse underscores the legal and cultural mechanisms in place to ensure that land inheritance remained within the original tribal allotments. The preservation of tribal boundaries was crucial for maintaining the identity and stability of the Israelite tribes. This principle is echoed in Leviticus 25:23-28, where the land is described as belonging to God, and the Israelites are merely stewards. The inheritance laws served to prevent the permanent loss of family land, which was a vital economic resource. This also foreshadows the New Testament concept of spiritual inheritance, where believers are co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17), emphasizing the permanence and security of God's promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Daughters of Zelophehad
These women were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah, daughters of Zelophehad, who belonged to the tribe of Manasseh. They are notable for their appeal to Moses for the right to inherit their father's land, as he had no sons.

2. Manasseh
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Manasseh, the son of Joseph. The tribe was allotted land on both sides of the Jordan River.

3. Joseph
The father of Manasseh, one of the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel), whose account is pivotal in the latter part of Genesis. Joseph's faithfulness and leadership were instrumental in the survival of the Israelites during a time of famine.

4. Inheritance Laws
The context of this passage involves the laws of inheritance for the Israelites, particularly concerning the preservation of tribal land within the family lineage.

5. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received and communicated God's laws, including those concerning inheritance, to the people.

Teaching Points

Preservation of Family Heritage
The passage emphasizes the importance of maintaining family heritage and inheritance within the tribe, reflecting God's design for order and continuity among His people.

Obedience to God's Commands
The daughters of Zelophehad's adherence to God's command regarding marriage within their tribe demonstrates obedience and respect for divine law, serving as a model for believers today.

God's Provision and Justice
God's provision for the daughters of Zelophehad underscores His justice and care for all individuals, ensuring that everyone has a place and inheritance in His plan.

Community and Identity
The passage highlights the significance of community and identity within the people of God, encouraging believers to value their spiritual heritage and community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the daughters of Zelophehad challenge or affirm your understanding of God's justice and provision?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of preserving family and spiritual heritage in our modern context?

3. How does the concept of inheritance in Numbers 36 relate to our spiritual inheritance in Christ as described in the New Testament?

4. What lessons can we learn from the obedience of the daughters of Zelophehad in maintaining their tribal identity, and how can this apply to our identity in Christ?

5. How do the inheritance laws in Numbers 36 reflect God's concern for community and order, and how can we foster these values in our church communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 17
This chapter further discusses the inheritance of the tribe of Manasseh, including the daughters of Zelophehad, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promises regarding land distribution.

Genesis 48
This passage describes Jacob's blessing of Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, establishing their place among the tribes of Israel and setting the stage for their future inheritance.

Ruth 4
The account of Ruth and Boaz illustrates the importance of preserving family inheritance and lineage, similar to the concerns addressed in Numbers 36.