Numbers 36:2

saying, "When the LORD commanded my lord to give the land as an inheritance to the Israelites by lot, He also commanded him to give the inheritance of our brother Zelophehad to his daughters.

Study Bible

saying, “When the LORD commanded my lord to give the land as an inheritance to the Israelites by lot,
This phrase refers to the divine instruction given to Moses regarding the distribution of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. The use of "by lot" indicates a method of allocation that was believed to reflect God's will, as seen in Joshua 18:10. This process ensured fairness and divine guidance in the distribution. The term "my lord" is a respectful address to Moses, acknowledging his leadership and role as God's chosen mediator. The concept of land inheritance is central to the covenant promises made to Abraham (Genesis 12:7), emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs.

He also commanded him to give the inheritance of our brother Zelophehad to his daughters.
This part of the verse highlights a specific case that set a precedent in Israelite inheritance laws. Zelophehad, from the tribe of Manasseh, had no sons, and his daughters petitioned Moses for their father's inheritance (Numbers 27:1-11). God's command to grant them the inheritance was a significant development in the rights of women within the Israelite community, ensuring that a family's name and property remained within the tribe. This decision reflects God's justice and care for all members of the community, regardless of gender. It also underscores the importance of maintaining tribal boundaries and inheritance within the covenant community, as seen in the broader narrative of Numbers and Joshua.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zelophehad's Daughters
The daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—are central figures in this passage. They approached Moses to secure their inheritance rights, as their father had no sons.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who was responsible for implementing God's laws and commands, including the distribution of the land.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel who provided the laws and commands regarding inheritance and land distribution.

4. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were receiving their inheritance in the Promised Land.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which was being divided among the tribes of Israel as their inheritance.

Teaching Points

God's Justice and Fairness
God's laws ensure justice and fairness, even in inheritance matters. The case of Zelophehad's daughters shows God's concern for equity and the rights of individuals, regardless of gender.

The Importance of Advocacy
The daughters of Zelophehad serve as an example of advocating for one's rights within the framework of God's law. Their respectful approach to Moses demonstrates the importance of seeking justice through proper channels.

Inheritance in Christ
Just as the daughters of Zelophehad were granted an inheritance, believers in Christ are assured of their spiritual inheritance. This passage can remind us of the eternal inheritance we have through faith in Jesus.

Obedience to God's Commands
Moses' adherence to God's command regarding the daughters' inheritance underscores the importance of obedience to God's Word. It challenges us to faithfully follow God's instructions in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Zelophehad's daughters challenge or affirm your understanding of God's justice and fairness?

2. In what ways can we advocate for justice and fairness in our communities, following the example of Zelophehad's daughters?

3. How does the concept of inheritance in Numbers 36:2 relate to our spiritual inheritance in Christ as described in the New Testament?

4. What can we learn from Moses' obedience to God's commands in this passage, and how can we apply this to our daily walk with God?

5. How does the resolution of the daughters' request in Numbers 36:2 encourage us to trust in God's provision and timing for our needs?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 27:1-11
This passage provides the background to Numbers 36:2, where the daughters of Zelophehad first approached Moses to request their inheritance rights.

Joshua 17:3-6
This passage recounts the fulfillment of the daughters' request, showing the practical application of God's command regarding inheritance.

Galatians 3:28
This New Testament verse highlights the principle of equality in Christ, which can be seen as a spiritual parallel to the daughters' right to inheritance.