Numbers 36:5

So at the word of the LORD, Moses commanded the Israelites: "The tribe of the sons of Joseph speaks correctly.

Study Bible

So at the word of the LORD
This phrase underscores the divine authority behind Moses' actions. The Hebrew term for "word" is "דָּבָר" (dabar), which signifies not just a spoken word but a matter or thing decreed. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a king's word was law, and here, the ultimate King, the LORD, speaks. This highlights the importance of divine guidance in decision-making, reminding believers that God's word is the ultimate authority and should be sought in all matters.

Moses commanded the Israelites
Moses, as the leader appointed by God, acts as the intermediary between God and His people. The Hebrew root for "commanded" is "צָוָה" (tsavah), which implies a directive given with authority. Historically, Moses' role was not just as a leader but as a prophet who conveyed God's will. This reflects the structure of leadership within the community of faith, where leaders are expected to act according to God's instructions, ensuring that their guidance aligns with divine principles.

The tribe of the descendants of Joseph
This phrase refers specifically to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph. Joseph's legacy is significant in Israel's history, as he was a key figure in the survival of the Israelites during the famine in Egypt. The mention of Joseph's descendants here is a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises, as Joseph's lineage was blessed and multiplied. It also emphasizes the importance of heritage and the continuation of God's covenant through generations.

is right
The Hebrew word for "right" is "כֵּן" (ken), which means correct or just. This affirmation by Moses, under God's direction, validates the concerns of the tribe of Joseph regarding inheritance laws. It highlights the justice and fairness inherent in God's laws, ensuring that the rights and concerns of all tribes are addressed. This serves as an inspiration for believers to seek justice and fairness in their own communities, trusting that God's ways are always righteous and equitable.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness. In this passage, Moses acts as a mediator, conveying God's commands to the people.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They are the recipients of God's laws and promises.

3. The Tribe of Joseph
This refers to the descendants of Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. In this context, it specifically involves the families of Manasseh and Ephraim, Joseph's sons, who are concerned about inheritance laws.

4. The Word of the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the divine authority behind Moses' command. It signifies that the instructions given are not merely human decisions but are rooted in God's will.

5. Inheritance Laws
The context of this verse involves the laws concerning the inheritance of land among the tribes of Israel, particularly addressing concerns about land remaining within the tribe.

Teaching Points

Divine Authority in Leadership
Moses' command is based on the word of the LORD, reminding us that true leadership in the church should be grounded in Scripture and divine guidance.

Importance of Inheritance
The concern of the tribe of Joseph highlights the significance of spiritual inheritance. Believers are called to preserve and pass on the faith to future generations.

Community and Unity
The resolution of the inheritance issue underscores the need for unity and cooperation within the body of Christ, ensuring that all members are cared for and that God's commands are upheld.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' adherence to God's instructions through Moses serves as a model for our obedience to God's Word today.

Justice and Fairness
The passage reflects God's concern for justice and fairness, principles that should guide our interactions and decisions within the church and society.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' role as a mediator between God and the Israelites in Numbers 36:5 parallel the role of Jesus as our mediator today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our spiritual inheritance is preserved and passed on to future generations within our families and church communities?

3. How does the resolution of the inheritance issue in Numbers 36:5 demonstrate the importance of unity and cooperation within the body of Christ?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our leadership and decision-making are grounded in the authority of God's Word?

5. How can we apply the principles of justice and fairness from this passage to our daily lives and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
This chapter provides background on the tribe of Joseph, where Jacob blesses Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, and adopts them as his own, giving them a share in the inheritance.

Joshua 17
This passage details the allotment of land to the tribe of Manasseh, highlighting the importance of maintaining tribal inheritance.

Deuteronomy 19
Discusses the importance of justice and fairness in the distribution of land, which is a broader theme connected to the inheritance laws in Numbers 36.