Biblical Context:
The request for a successor by Moses is a significant event in the narrative of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land. This event is recorded in the Book of Numbers, specifically in Numbers 27:12-23. It occurs towards the end of Moses' life, as the Israelites are on the brink of entering Canaan, the land promised to them by God.

Scriptural Account:
In Numbers 27:12-14, the LORD instructs Moses to ascend the mountain of Abarim to view the land that He has given to the Israelites. The LORD reminds Moses that he will not enter the land due to his disobedience at the waters of Meribah. Recognizing the need for leadership continuity, Moses, in a display of humility and concern for the people, requests a successor to lead the congregation.

Numbers 27:15-17 records Moses' plea: "Then Moses said to the LORD, 'May the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation who will go out and come in before them, who will lead them out and bring them in, so that the congregation of the LORD will not be like sheep without a shepherd.'"

Divine Appointment:
In response to Moses' request, the LORD appoints Joshua son of Nun as his successor. Numbers 27:18-20 states, "The LORD replied to Moses, 'Take Joshua son of Nun, a man who has the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him. Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation, and commission him in their sight. Confer on him some of your authority, so that the whole congregation of the Israelites will obey him.'"

Joshua is chosen not only for his military prowess and leadership skills but also because he is a man "who has the Spirit in him," indicating divine approval and spiritual readiness for the task ahead.

Ceremonial Commissioning:
The commissioning of Joshua is a public and ceremonial act, ensuring that the Israelites recognize and accept Joshua's leadership. Numbers 27:22-23 describes the event: "Moses did as the LORD had commanded him. He took Joshua, had him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation, and laid his hands on him and commissioned him, as the LORD had instructed through Moses."

Theological Significance:
This passage highlights several key theological themes. First, it underscores the importance of divinely appointed leadership within the community of God's people. The transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua is not merely a human decision but a divine mandate, ensuring that the Israelites remain under God's guidance.

Second, the passage illustrates the principle of servant leadership. Moses, despite his own disappointment at not entering the Promised Land, prioritizes the well-being of the congregation, seeking a leader who will shepherd them faithfully.

Finally, the laying on of hands signifies the transfer of authority and blessing, a practice that continues in various forms within Christian traditions today. It symbolizes the continuity of God's work through chosen individuals, empowered by His Spirit to fulfill His purposes.

Historical and Cultural Context:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, leadership transitions were critical moments that could determine the stability and future of a community. The Israelites, having experienced Moses' leadership for decades, faced a pivotal moment as they prepared to enter a new phase of their journey. The appointment of Joshua ensured that the transition was smooth and divinely sanctioned, providing the people with confidence and continuity.

Moses' Legacy:
Moses' request for a successor and the subsequent appointment of Joshua reflect his enduring legacy as a leader who deeply cared for his people and sought to fulfill God's will above his own desires. His actions set a precedent for future leadership transitions within the biblical narrative and offer a model of faithful stewardship and reliance on divine guidance.