Biblical Context:
The account of Zelophehad's daughters is found in the Old Testament, primarily in the Book of Numbers. Zelophehad, a descendant of Manasseh, son of Joseph, had no sons, only daughters. His daughters were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. This narrative is significant as it addresses issues of inheritance rights and the preservation of family lineage within the tribes of Israel.

Scriptural References:
The primary passages concerning Zelophehad's daughters are Numbers 27:1-11 and Numbers 36:1-12. These passages detail their appeal to Moses and the subsequent divine instruction regarding inheritance laws.

Numbers 27:1-11 :
In Numbers 27, the daughters of Zelophehad approached Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the entire assembly at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. They presented their case, stating that their father died in the wilderness and had no sons. They asked for a possession among their father's brothers to preserve their father's name. Moses brought their case before the LORD, who affirmed their claim, stating, "The daughters of Zelophehad speak correctly. You certainly must give them property as an inheritance among their father’s brothers and transfer their father’s inheritance to them" (Numbers 27:7). This decree established a precedent for inheritance rights for daughters in the absence of sons.

Numbers 36:1-12 :
Later, in Numbers 36, the heads of the families of the tribe of Manasseh raised a concern about the inheritance potentially transferring to other tribes if the daughters married outside their tribe. The LORD commanded through Moses that the daughters of Zelophehad could marry anyone they wished, provided they married within their father's tribal clan. This ensured that the inheritance would remain within the tribe, preserving the tribal allotments as initially distributed.

Theological Implications:
The narrative of Zelophehad's daughters highlights the justice and equity inherent in God's law. It underscores the importance of preserving family heritage and tribal integrity within the covenant community of Israel. The case set a legal precedent that balanced individual rights with communal responsibilities, reflecting the broader biblical principles of justice and fairness.

Cultural and Historical Significance:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, inheritance typically passed through male descendants. The case of Zelophehad's daughters was revolutionary, as it recognized the rights of women to inherit property, thereby ensuring the continuation of their father's name and estate. This legal provision demonstrated the adaptability and fairness of Mosaic Law in addressing unique familial situations.

Application for Today:
The account of Zelophehad's daughters serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for justice and equity within the framework of God's laws. It encourages believers to seek God's wisdom in addressing complex social and familial issues, ensuring that the principles of fairness and righteousness are upheld in all circumstances.