The Daughters of Zelophehad are notable figures in the Old Testament, specifically within the narrative of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land. Their account is primarily found in the Book of Numbers, with additional references in Joshua and Chronicles. These five sisters—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—are the daughters of Zelophehad, a descendant of Manasseh, son of Joseph.

Biblical Account

The account of the Daughters of Zelophehad is introduced in Numbers 26:33, where they are first mentioned in the census of the Israelites. Their account unfolds in Numbers 27:1-11. Zelophehad, their father, died in the wilderness without leaving a male heir. According to the inheritance laws of the time, property was passed through male descendants, which would have left Zelophehad's family without an inheritance in the Promised Land.

In a bold and unprecedented move, the daughters approached 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, but he was not among the followers of Korah, who banded together against the LORD; 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 relatives" (Numbers 27:3-4).

Moses brought their case before the LORD, and God responded affirmatively, saying, "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 new legal precedent for inheritance rights, allowing daughters to inherit if there were no sons.

Further Developments

The issue of the daughters' inheritance is revisited in Numbers 36:1-12. The leaders of the tribe of Manasseh raised a concern that if the daughters married outside their tribe, their inheritance would transfer to another tribe, thus diminishing the land holdings of Manasseh. In response, God commanded through Moses that the daughters could marry anyone they wished, provided they married within their father's tribal clan. The daughters complied, marrying their cousins within the tribe of Manasseh, ensuring that their inheritance remained within the tribe.

Legacy and Significance

The account of the Daughters of Zelophehad is significant for several reasons. It highlights the importance of justice and fairness in the distribution of inheritance and property rights. Their case led to a change in the inheritance laws, as recorded in Numbers 27:8-11, which provided a legal framework for similar situations in the future. This narrative underscores the value of advocacy and the willingness to seek justice within the framework of God's law.

The Daughters of Zelophehad are also mentioned in Joshua 17:3-6, where their inheritance is confirmed as the land is divided among the tribes of Israel. Their account is a testament to God's provision and the importance of maintaining family heritage and tribal integrity within the covenant community.

Genealogical Record

The genealogical record in 1 Chronicles 7:15 lists the daughters of Zelophehad, affirming their place within the tribe of Manasseh. Their inclusion in the genealogical records underscores their significance in the history of Israel and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

The narrative of the Daughters of Zelophehad serves as a powerful example of faith, courage, and the pursuit of justice, reflecting the broader themes of God's faithfulness and the equitable application of His laws.