Biblical Context:
The account of Zelophehad's daughters is found in the Book of Numbers, specifically in Numbers 27:1-11, and is later referenced in Numbers 36 and Joshua 17. This narrative occurs during the Israelites' wilderness journey, as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The daughters' account is significant in the context of inheritance laws and the broader theme of justice and equity within the Israelite community.

Historical Background:
Zelophehad was a descendant of Manasseh, the son of Joseph. He died in the wilderness without leaving any sons, which presented a legal and social dilemma regarding the inheritance of his land. In ancient Israel, inheritance typically passed through male descendants, ensuring the preservation of family lineage and property within the tribe.

The Petition:
Zelophehad's daughters—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—demonstrated remarkable courage and initiative by approaching Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the entire assembly at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. They presented their case, saying, "Our father died in the wilderness. He was not among the followers of Korah, who banded together against the LORD, but he died for his own sin and left no sons. Why should the name of our father disappear from his clan because he had no son? Give us property among our father’s brothers" (Numbers 27:3-4).

Divine Response:
Moses brought their case before the LORD, who affirmed the daughters' claim. The LORD instructed Moses, "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 divine ruling established a precedent for inheritance rights, allowing daughters to inherit if a man died without sons.

Legal and Theological Implications:
The case of Zelophehad's daughters led to a significant amendment in Israelite inheritance law, as outlined in Numbers 27:8-11. This legal provision ensured that the family name and property could be preserved even in the absence of male heirs. Theologically, this narrative underscores the justice and fairness of God's law, reflecting His concern for the marginalized and His willingness to adapt legal structures to uphold righteousness.

Further Developments:
In Numbers 36, the heads of the families of the tribe of Manasseh raised concerns about the potential transfer of tribal land through marriage. In response, the LORD commanded that the daughters marry within their father's tribal clan to prevent the inheritance from passing to another tribe. This ensured the preservation of tribal boundaries and the integrity of the tribal inheritance system.

Legacy:
The courage of Zelophehad's daughters is celebrated as an example of faith and assertiveness in seeking justice. Their actions not only secured their own inheritance but also contributed to a broader understanding of equity within the covenant community. Their account is a testament to the importance of advocating for one's rights within the framework of God's law and serves as an enduring example of the balance between tradition and justice.