Numbers 36:10

So the daughters of Zelophehad did as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Study Bible

So the daughters of Zelophehad
The daughters of Zelophehad were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. They were from the tribe of Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel. Their story is significant because it highlights the issue of inheritance rights for women in ancient Israel. In a patriarchal society, inheritance typically passed through male descendants. However, Zelophehad had no sons, prompting his daughters to appeal for their right to inherit their father's land. This event is a pivotal moment in biblical history, showcasing God's justice and provision for all His people, regardless of gender.

did as the LORD had commanded Moses.
This phrase underscores the obedience of the daughters to God's command, as relayed through Moses. It reflects the importance of following divine instructions and the role of Moses as a mediator between God and the Israelites. The command given to Moses, which allowed the daughters to inherit, was a direct response to their plea and was later codified into Israelite law, ensuring that women in similar situations could inherit property. This obedience also highlights the broader theme of faithfulness to God's word, a recurring motif throughout the Bible. The daughters' actions can be seen as a type of Christ's obedience to the Father, fulfilling God's will perfectly.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Daughters of Zelophehad
These were the five daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—who approached Moses to claim their inheritance rights in the absence of a male heir.

2. Zelophehad
A member of the tribe of Manasseh who died without male heirs, prompting his daughters to seek an inheritance among their father's brothers.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received and communicated God's laws and commands, including the ruling on the daughters' inheritance.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel who provided the law and guidance to Moses and the Israelites.

5. Tribe of Manasseh
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, to which Zelophehad and his daughters belonged.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Command
The daughters of Zelophehad exemplify obedience by following God's command through Moses. This teaches us the importance of adhering to God's instructions in our lives.

God's Justice and Fairness
God's ruling in favor of the daughters highlights His justice and fairness, ensuring that everyone receives their due inheritance. We can trust in God's equitable nature in our own circumstances.

Courage to Seek Justice
The daughters' boldness in approaching Moses serves as an example of courage in seeking justice. We are encouraged to stand up for what is right, even when it challenges societal norms.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
This passage underscores the significant role women play in God's plan, reminding us of the value and contributions of women in the faith community.

Faith in God's Promises
The fulfillment of the daughters' inheritance is a testament to God's faithfulness. We are reminded to have faith in God's promises, knowing He will fulfill them in His time.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of the daughters of Zelophehad to God's command challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways does the account of the daughters of Zelophehad encourage us to seek justice in our communities today?

3. How can we apply the principles of God's fairness and justice in our interactions with others?

4. What lessons can we learn from the daughters of Zelophehad about the role of women in the church and society?

5. How does the fulfillment of God's promise to the daughters of Zelophehad strengthen our faith in His promises to us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 27:1-11
This passage provides the background to Numbers 36:10, where the daughters of Zelophehad first present their case to Moses, and God affirms their right to inherit.

Joshua 17:3-6
This passage recounts the fulfillment of the inheritance promise to the daughters of Zelophehad, showing the continuity of God's faithfulness.

Galatians 3:28
This New Testament verse highlights the equality of all believers in Christ, reflecting the breaking of traditional barriers, similar to the daughters' challenge to inheritance norms.