Numbers 27:2

the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, stood before Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the whole congregation, and said,

Study Bible

the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, also known as the Tabernacle, was the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. It was a portable sanctuary that accompanied the Israelites and was the focal point for divine communication. The entrance to the Tent of Meeting was a significant location where important matters were addressed, symbolizing access to God and His guidance. This setting underscores the gravity of the situation and the reverence with which the petitioners approached their request.

stood before Moses
Moses was the leader and prophet of Israel, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness. Standing before Moses indicates a formal presentation of a case or request, acknowledging his authority and role as mediator between God and the people. This act of standing before Moses reflects the established order and respect for leadership within the Israelite community.

Eleazar the priest
Eleazar, the son of Aaron, served as the high priest after Aaron's death. The presence of Eleazar signifies the religious and ceremonial aspects of the issue at hand, as priests were responsible for maintaining the spiritual well-being of the nation and ensuring adherence to God's laws. His involvement highlights the importance of priestly oversight in matters of inheritance and legal decisions.

the leaders
The leaders, or elders, of Israel were representatives of the various tribes and clans, responsible for governance and decision-making within the community. Their inclusion in this assembly indicates that the matter being addressed had implications for the broader social and legal structure of Israel. It reflects the communal nature of decision-making and the importance of consensus among the leaders.

and the whole congregation
The involvement of the whole congregation emphasizes the public and communal nature of the proceedings. It suggests that the issue at hand was not only a private concern but one that affected the entire community. This phrase underscores the transparency and inclusivity of the decision-making process in Israelite society, where significant matters were addressed openly before the people.

and said
The act of speaking in this context implies a formal petition or request being made. It indicates that the individuals involved had a specific concern or issue they wished to bring before the leadership for resolution. This phrase sets the stage for the subsequent dialogue and decision-making process, highlighting the importance of communication and advocacy within the community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness.

2. Eleazar the Priest
The son of Aaron, serving as the high priest after Aaron's death, responsible for the spiritual leadership of Israel.

3. The Leaders
The heads of the tribes of Israel, who were responsible for governance and decision-making among the people.

4. The Whole Congregation
The assembly of the Israelites, representing the entire community of God's people.

5. The Tent of Meeting
The sacred place where God communicated with Moses and where important decisions and judgments were made.

Teaching Points

Approaching God with Boldness
The daughters of Zelophehad approached the leaders with confidence. Believers today are encouraged to approach God with boldness in prayer and supplication.

The Importance of Community
The presence of the whole congregation signifies the importance of community in decision-making and spiritual matters. Christians are called to engage with their faith community for support and guidance.

Leadership and Responsibility
The involvement of Moses, Eleazar, and the leaders highlights the importance of godly leadership. Christians in leadership roles should seek wisdom and guidance from God in their responsibilities.

Respect for Sacred Spaces
The Tent of Meeting was a place of divine encounter. Believers should respect and honor places of worship as spaces for encountering God.

Advocacy for Justice
The daughters' plea for their inheritance rights demonstrates the importance of advocating for justice and fairness, a principle that remains relevant for Christians today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the boldness of the daughters of Zelophehad in approaching Moses and the leaders inspire you in your prayer life?

2. In what ways can you contribute to your faith community, similar to how the congregation was involved in the decision-making process?

3. What qualities of leadership do you see in Moses and Eleazar that you can apply to your own life or leadership roles?

4. How can you show respect and reverence for the sacred spaces in your life, such as your church or personal prayer area?

5. What are some areas in your life or community where you can advocate for justice and fairness, following the example of the daughters of Zelophehad?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 18
Jethro's advice to Moses about sharing leadership responsibilities connects to the presence of leaders in Numbers 27:2, emphasizing the importance of shared governance.

Leviticus 10
The role of Eleazar as a priest is further explained, highlighting the continuity of priestly duties from Aaron to his son.

Deuteronomy 1
The appointment of leaders among the tribes is detailed, providing context for the leadership structure seen in Numbers 27:2.

Hebrews 4
The concept of approaching God with confidence, as the daughters of Zelophehad did, is echoed in the New Testament, encouraging believers to seek God's guidance.