Joshua 17:3

But Zelophehad son of Hepher (the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh) had no sons but only daughters. These are the names of his daughters: Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah.

Study Bible

But Zelophehad son of Hepher (the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh)
Zelophehad is a descendant of Manasseh, one of Joseph's sons, which places him within the tribe of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This lineage is significant as it ties Zelophehad to the inheritance promises given to the tribes of Israel. The mention of Gilead and Machir highlights the geographical region east of the Jordan River, known for its fertile land. This genealogy underscores the importance of family lineage in Israelite society, where inheritance and tribal identity were crucial.

had no sons but only daughters.
In ancient Israelite culture, inheritance typically passed through male descendants. The absence of sons in Zelophehad's family presented a unique legal and cultural challenge. This situation is addressed in Numbers 27:1-11, where Zelophehad's daughters appeal to Moses for the right to inherit their father's land. Their case sets a precedent in Israelite law, allowing daughters to inherit if there are no sons, thus ensuring the preservation of family property within the tribe.

These are the names of his daughters: Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah.
The naming of Zelophehad's daughters is significant, as it highlights their role in challenging and changing inheritance laws. Each name carries meaning and reflects the cultural and familial identity of the time. Their story is a testament to faith and courage, as they approached Moses and the leaders of Israel to claim their inheritance rights. This act of faith is later affirmed by God, as recorded in Numbers 27, and serves as an example of God's justice and provision for all members of His people, regardless of gender. Their names are also mentioned in Numbers 36 and 1 Chronicles 7:15, emphasizing their importance in biblical history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zelophehad
A descendant of Manasseh, son of Joseph. He had no sons, only daughters, which was significant in the context of inheritance laws in ancient Israel.

2. Hepher
Father of Zelophehad, part of the lineage of Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel.

3. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, also a descendant in the lineage of Manasseh.

4. Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah
The daughters of Zelophehad who approached Moses to claim their inheritance rights, setting a precedent for inheritance laws for women in Israel.

5. Manasseh
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph, and significant in the division of the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Courage in Faith
Zelophehad's daughters demonstrated courage by approaching Moses and the leaders to claim their inheritance. This teaches us to boldly approach God and seek justice in accordance with His will.

God's Justice and Fairness
The account illustrates God's fairness and justice, as He provided a way for the daughters to receive their inheritance. It reminds us that God values justice and equity.

Role of Women in God's Plan
The inclusion of Zelophehad's daughters in the inheritance laws shows that women have a significant role in God's plan. This encourages us to recognize and support the contributions of women in the church and society.

Obedience to God's Commands
The daughters' actions were in line with God's commands, showing the importance of obedience and trust in God's provision.

Legacy and Inheritance
The passage encourages us to consider the spiritual legacy we leave behind and the importance of passing on faith and values to the next generation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Zelophehad's daughters challenge traditional views on inheritance and gender roles in biblical times?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate courage and faith in our own lives when facing societal norms that may seem unjust?

3. How does the inclusion of women in the inheritance laws reflect God's character and His view of justice?

4. What lessons can we learn from the daughters of Zelophehad about approaching God with our requests and concerns?

5. How can we ensure that we are leaving a spiritual legacy for future generations, similar to the inheritance sought by Zelophehad's daughters?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 27:1-11
This passage details the initial request of Zelophehad's daughters to Moses for an inheritance, highlighting their faith and courage.

Numbers 36:1-12
Discusses the conditions under which the daughters could marry to ensure the inheritance remained within the tribe, emphasizing the importance of tribal integrity.

Galatians 3:28
While not directly related, this verse speaks to the equality of all in Christ, reflecting the breaking of traditional barriers, similar to the daughters' challenge to inheritance norms.