The Daughters' Petition refers to the account of the daughters of Zelophehad, found in the Book of Numbers, specifically in Numbers 27:1-11. This narrative is significant as it addresses issues of inheritance rights and the role of women within the Israelite community.

Biblical Context

The account unfolds during the Israelites' wilderness journey, as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. Zelophehad, a descendant of Manasseh, son of Joseph, had died without leaving any sons. His daughters—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—approached Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the entire assembly at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting with a bold request.

The Petition

The daughters 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 our father’s name disappear from his clan because he had no son? Give us property among our father’s relatives" (Numbers 27:3-4).

Their petition was unprecedented, as the inheritance laws at the time primarily favored male heirs. The daughters' request challenged the existing norms and sought justice for their father's name and their own future.

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 shall give them a possession of an inheritance among their father’s brothers, and transfer their father’s inheritance to them" (Numbers 27:7). This divine ruling established a new legal precedent for inheritance, ensuring that if a man died without a son, his inheritance would pass to his daughters.

Implications for Israelite Law

The LORD further commanded Moses to communicate a broader statute to the Israelites: if a man died without a son, his inheritance should be transferred to his daughter. If he had no daughter, the inheritance would go to his brothers, then to his father's brothers, and finally to the nearest relative within his clan (Numbers 27:8-11). This legal provision underscored the importance of maintaining family inheritance within the tribe and clan, while also recognizing the rights of women in the absence of male heirs.

Theological Significance

The Daughters' Petition highlights the justice and equity inherent in God's law. It demonstrates God's concern for the marginalized and His willingness to adapt societal norms to uphold righteousness. The narrative also underscores the value of courage and faith, as the daughters of Zelophehad approached the leaders with confidence, trusting in God's justice.

Legacy

The account of the daughters of Zelophehad is a testament to the progressive nature of biblical law in its historical context. It serves as an early example of women's rights being acknowledged and protected within the framework of God's covenant with Israel. This account is often cited in discussions about the role of women in biblical times and the development of legal rights in ancient Israel.