Numbers 36:3

But if they marry any of the men from the other tribes of Israel, their inheritance will be withdrawn from the portion of our fathers and added to the tribe into which they marry.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.

Study Bible

Now if they marry men from other Israelite tribes
This phrase introduces a potential issue concerning inheritance and tribal identity. The Hebrew root for "marry" (נָשָׂא, nasa) implies a lifting up or carrying away, suggesting the significant change and responsibility that marriage entails. In ancient Israel, marriage was not just a personal union but a communal and tribal affair, deeply affecting family lineage and property rights. The historical context here is crucial: the Israelites were organized into twelve tribes, each with its own land allotment. Marrying outside one's tribe could lead to the transfer of land inheritance, which was a serious concern for maintaining tribal boundaries and identity.

their inheritance will be taken away
The phrase "inheritance will be taken away" underscores the importance of land as a divine gift and a symbol of God's promise to the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah) conveys not just property but a heritage or legacy. In the ancient Near Eastern context, land was a critical component of economic stability and social status. The potential loss of inheritance through inter-tribal marriage posed a threat to the continuity of God's covenant promises to each tribe. This reflects the broader biblical theme of stewardship and the responsibility to preserve what God has entrusted to His people.

and added to the inheritance of the tribe into which they marry
This part of the verse highlights the transfer of property rights through marriage. The concept of "added to the inheritance" suggests an increase or expansion, which in this context, could disrupt the divinely ordained distribution of land among the tribes. The Hebrew root for "added" (יָסַף, yasaph) implies an increase or augmentation, which, while generally positive, here presents a challenge to maintaining tribal integrity. Historically, this reflects the broader societal structures in ancient Israel, where land was not just an economic asset but a sacred trust. The concern was that such transfers could dilute tribal distinctiveness and undermine the social and religious fabric of the nation.

So it will be taken from the lot of our inheritance
The phrase "taken from the lot of our inheritance" emphasizes the zero-sum nature of land distribution among the tribes. The Hebrew word for "lot" (גּוֹרָל, goral) refers to the method by which land was apportioned, often by casting lots, which was seen as a way of discerning God's will. This underscores the belief that the land was not merely a possession but a divine allotment. The potential loss of land through inter-tribal marriage was not just a personal or familial issue but a communal one, affecting the entire tribe's future. This reflects the biblical principle of communal responsibility and the need to safeguard the blessings God has given to His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Daughters of Zelophehad
These women were the daughters of Zelophehad, from the tribe of Manasseh. They were significant for their appeal to Moses regarding their right to inherit their father's property, as he had no sons.

2. Tribe of Manasseh
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's son Manasseh. The issue of inheritance was particularly relevant to this tribe due to the daughters' situation.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who mediated between God and the people. He was responsible for conveying God's laws and judgments, including those concerning inheritance.

4. Israelite Tribes
The twelve tribes of Israel, each with its own inheritance in the Promised Land. The concern was about maintaining the integrity of each tribe's inheritance.

5. Inheritance Laws
The laws given by God to ensure the fair distribution of land among the tribes of Israel, which were crucial for maintaining tribal identity and stability.

Teaching Points

Preservation of Inheritance
The passage underscores the importance of preserving family and tribal inheritance, reflecting God's order and provision for His people.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were called to obey God's laws regarding inheritance, demonstrating trust in His wisdom and provision.

Community and Identity
Maintaining tribal boundaries was crucial for preserving the identity and unity of the Israelite community, a principle that can be applied to maintaining spiritual and communal integrity today.

God's Provision for Women
The case of the daughters of Zelophehad shows God's care and provision for women, ensuring their rights and place within the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the issue of inheritance in Numbers 36:3 reflect God's concern for order and justice among His people?

2. In what ways does the preservation of tribal inheritance relate to the broader biblical theme of identity and community?

3. How can the principles of inheritance and obedience in this passage be applied to our spiritual inheritance in Christ?

4. What does the account of the daughters of Zelophehad teach us about God's provision for women and marginalized groups in society?

5. How can we ensure that our spiritual and communal "inheritance" is preserved and passed on to future generations, in light of this passage and related scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 17
This chapter recounts the allocation of land to the tribe of Manasseh, including the daughters of Zelophehad, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise regarding their inheritance.

Leviticus 25
Discusses the Year of Jubilee, which ensured that land would return to the original family, emphasizing the importance of maintaining tribal inheritance.

Ruth 4
The account of Boaz and Ruth illustrates the concept of kinsman-redeemer, which is related to preserving family inheritance within the tribe.