Biblical Reference: Numbers 27:1-11; Joshua 17:3-6

Historical Context:
The account of the daughters of Zelophehad is set during the Israelites' wilderness journey, as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. This period was marked by the establishment of laws and statutes that would govern the Israelite community in Canaan. The narrative highlights a significant moment in the development of inheritance laws within the Israelite society.

Narrative Summary:
The daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—were members of the tribe of Manasseh, descendants of Joseph. Their father, Zelophehad, had died in the wilderness without leaving any sons. According to the prevailing customs, inheritance was passed through male descendants, leaving the daughters without a share in the land that was to be distributed among the tribes of Israel.

Recognizing the potential injustice, 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. 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, ensuring that if a man died without a son, his inheritance would pass to his daughters.

Legal Precedent:
The LORD further commanded Moses to establish a broader legal framework for inheritance: if a man had no daughter, his inheritance would go to his brothers; if he had no brothers, it would go to his father’s brothers; and if his father had no brothers, it would be given to the nearest relative in his clan (Numbers 27:8-11). This statute became a lasting ordinance for the Israelites, reflecting God's justice and care for all members of the community.

Subsequent Developments:
The daughters of Zelophehad reappear in Joshua 17:3-6, where their inheritance is confirmed as the land is apportioned in Canaan. Their case not only secured their own rights but also served as a catalyst for the establishment of equitable inheritance laws, ensuring that the legacy and name of a family could be preserved even in the absence of male heirs.

Theological Implications:
The account of the daughters of Zelophehad underscores the importance of justice and equity in God's law. It highlights the value of advocacy and the willingness to seek redress for perceived injustices. The narrative also illustrates God's responsiveness to the needs of His people and His commitment to upholding righteousness within the community. Through this account, the LORD demonstrates that His laws are not static but can be adapted to address the evolving needs of His people, ensuring that His covenant community reflects His character of fairness and compassion.