Biblical Context:
Zelophehad's daughters are mentioned in the context of the Israelite journey to the Promised Land, specifically in the books of Numbers and Joshua. Zelophehad, a descendant of Manasseh, son of Joseph, died without leaving any sons. His daughters—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—approached Moses and the leaders of Israel to claim their father's inheritance, as recorded in Numbers 27:1-11. Their request was granted by divine command, establishing a precedent for inheritance rights for daughters in the absence of sons.

Marriage and Inheritance:
The issue of inheritance for Zelophehad's daughters is revisited in Numbers 36. The leaders of the tribe of Manasseh raised a concern that if Zelophehad's daughters married outside their tribe, their inheritance would transfer to another tribe, thus diminishing the land allotted to Manasseh. In response, the LORD commanded through Moses that the daughters must marry within their father's tribal clan to ensure that the inheritance remains within the tribe.

Scriptural Reference:
Numbers 36:6-9 states: "This is what the LORD commands concerning the daughters of Zelophehad: They may marry anyone they please, as long as they marry within the clan of their father’s tribe. No inheritance in Israel is to pass from tribe to tribe, for each Israelite tribe is to keep the land it inherits. Every daughter who possesses an inheritance in any Israelite tribe must marry within a clan of the tribe of her father, so that every Israelite will possess the inheritance of his fathers. No inheritance may pass from one tribe to another, for each tribe of Israel must keep its inheritance."

Significance:
The case of Zelophehad's daughters marrying within their tribe underscores the importance of maintaining tribal boundaries and inheritance laws in ancient Israel. It reflects the broader biblical principle of preserving family and tribal heritage, which was crucial for maintaining the social and religious structure of the Israelite community. This directive ensured that the land, a vital component of God's covenant with Israel, remained within the designated tribal allotments.

Theological Implications:
The narrative of Zelophehad's daughters highlights God's justice and provision for all members of the community, including women, within the framework of His covenantal promises. It demonstrates the adaptability of the law to address specific situations while upholding the integrity of God's commands. The resolution of their case illustrates the balance between individual rights and communal responsibilities, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative.

Cultural and Historical Context:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, inheritance laws typically favored male heirs. The inclusion of Zelophehad's daughters in the inheritance laws of Israel marks a significant departure from surrounding cultures, reflecting the unique covenant relationship between God and His people. This legal provision not only protected the rights of women in Israel but also reinforced the theological significance of the land as a divine gift to the tribes of Israel.

Legacy:
The account of Zelophehad's daughters is a testament to the faith and courage of these women, who sought justice within the framework of God's law. Their actions led to a lasting legal precedent in Israel, ensuring that the inheritance rights of women were recognized and protected. Their account is a powerful example of how God's law accommodates the needs of His people while maintaining the sanctity of His covenantal promises.