Numbers 36:1

Now the family heads of the clan of Gilead son of Machir son of Manasseh, one of the clans of Joseph, approached Moses and the leaders who were the heads of the Israelite families and addressed them,

Study Bible

Now the family heads of the clan of Gilead son of Machir son of Manasseh
This phrase identifies the specific lineage within the tribe of Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel. Gilead is a region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and rugged terrain. Machir was the firstborn son of Manasseh, and his descendants were known for their valor and military prowess. The mention of Gilead highlights the importance of land inheritance and tribal identity in Israelite society. This lineage is significant as it connects to the broader narrative of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land and the allocation of territories among the tribes.

one of the clans of Joseph
Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, received a double portion of inheritance through his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh. This phrase underscores the fulfillment of Jacob's blessing in Genesis 48, where he adopts Joseph's sons as his own, granting them equal status with his other sons. The division into clans reflects the organizational structure of the Israelite tribes, which was crucial for maintaining order and distributing land.

approached Moses and the leaders who were the heads of the Israelite families
The act of approaching Moses and the leaders indicates a formal request or concern being brought before the highest authority. Moses, as the leader and prophet, served as the mediator between God and the people. The leaders of the Israelite families were responsible for representing their respective tribes and clans, ensuring that justice and order were maintained. This approach reflects the theocratic governance system in place, where spiritual and civil matters were intertwined.

and addressed them
This phrase signifies the beginning of a dialogue or petition. In the context of Numbers 36, the issue at hand involves the inheritance rights of the daughters of Zelophehad, a matter previously addressed in Numbers 27. The addressing of leaders highlights the communal and legal processes in ancient Israel, where disputes and concerns were resolved through consultation and adherence to divine law. This process underscores the importance of maintaining tribal boundaries and inheritance laws, which were vital for preserving the identity and continuity of the Israelite people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and fertile land. It is also the name of a clan within the tribe of Manasseh.

2. Machir
The firstborn son of Manasseh, who was the son of Joseph. Machir's descendants were significant in the tribe of Manasseh.

3. Manasseh
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Joseph's firstborn son. The tribe was divided into two half-tribes, one on each side of the Jordan River.

4. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who led them out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He was the mediator between God and the people.

5. Israelite Families
The collective tribes of Israel, each with its own leaders and heads of families, who played a role in decision-making and governance.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Inheritance
Inheritance was crucial for maintaining tribal identity and continuity. It ensured that each tribe retained its allotted portion of the Promised Land.

God's Provision and Order
The laws regarding inheritance reflect God's provision and order for His people, ensuring fairness and justice within the community.

Leadership and Mediation
Moses' role as a mediator highlights the importance of godly leadership in resolving disputes and maintaining unity among God's people.

Faithfulness to God's Commands
The Israelites' concern for adhering to God's commands regarding inheritance demonstrates their commitment to living according to His will.

Community and Family Responsibility
The involvement of family heads in decision-making underscores the responsibility of families to uphold God's laws and support one another.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concern of the Gileadites in Numbers 36:1 reflect the broader theme of inheritance in the Bible, and why is this significant for us today?

2. In what ways does the role of Moses in this passage illustrate the importance of godly leadership in resolving conflicts within the community?

3. How can we apply the principles of fairness and justice seen in the inheritance laws to our own lives and communities?

4. What lessons can we learn from the involvement of family heads in this passage about the role of families in spiritual and communal life?

5. How does the issue of inheritance in Numbers 36 connect to the New Testament teachings on our spiritual inheritance in Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 17
This chapter discusses the inheritance of the tribe of Manasseh, including the daughters of Zelophehad, which is directly related to the issue addressed in Numbers 36.

Genesis 48
This chapter recounts Jacob's blessing of Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, establishing their significance among the tribes of Israel.

Deuteronomy 19
Discusses the cities of refuge, which were also a concern for land inheritance and tribal boundaries, similar to the issues in Numbers 36.