Numbers 36:3

But if they marry any of the men from the other tribes of Israel, their inheritance will be withdrawn from the portion of our fathers and added to the tribe into which they marry. So our allotted inheritance would be taken away.

Study Bible

But if they marry any of the men from the other tribes of Israel
This phrase addresses the concern of inter-tribal marriage within the nation of Israel. The context is the inheritance laws for the daughters of Zelophehad, as discussed in Numbers 27 and 36. The issue arises from the potential loss of tribal land inheritance if daughters marry outside their tribe. This reflects the importance of maintaining tribal boundaries and inheritance within the Promised Land, as originally allocated by God through Moses and Joshua (Joshua 13-21). The preservation of tribal identity and land was crucial for maintaining the distinctiveness and order of the Israelite community.

their inheritance will be withdrawn from the portion of our fathers
The inheritance refers to the land portions allocated to each tribe, which were considered a perpetual possession given by God. The phrase "portion of our fathers" emphasizes the ancestral heritage and the divine promise to the patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 12:7, 26:3, 28:13). The land was not merely property but a fulfillment of God's covenant, symbolizing His faithfulness and the Israelites' identity as His chosen people.

and added to the tribe into which they marry
This highlights the legal and social implications of marriage in ancient Israel. Marrying into another tribe would result in the transfer of land inheritance, potentially altering the tribal boundaries established by God. This concern underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of each tribe's inheritance, as it was tied to their identity and role within the nation. The law sought to prevent the dilution of tribal lands and ensure that each tribe retained its God-given inheritance.

So our allotted inheritance would be taken away
The phrase reflects the anxiety of losing a divinely allotted inheritance, which was not only a matter of economic concern but also of spiritual and cultural significance. The inheritance was a tangible sign of God's promise and blessing. The potential loss of land would mean a loss of identity and a breach in the continuity of God's covenant with the people. This concern led to the stipulation that daughters who inherited land must marry within their tribe, ensuring the preservation of tribal inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Daughters of Zelophehad
These women were the daughters of Zelophehad, from the tribe of Manasseh. They were significant for their appeal to Moses regarding their right to inherit their father's property, as he had no sons.

2. Tribe of Manasseh
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's son Manasseh. The issue of inheritance was particularly relevant to this tribe due to the daughters' situation.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who mediated between God and the people. He was responsible for conveying God's laws and judgments, including those concerning inheritance.

4. Israelite Tribes
The twelve tribes of Israel, each with its own inheritance in the Promised Land. The concern was about maintaining the integrity of each tribe's inheritance.

5. Inheritance Laws
The laws given by God to ensure the fair distribution of land among the tribes of Israel, which were crucial for maintaining tribal identity and stability.

Teaching Points

Preservation of Inheritance
The passage underscores the importance of preserving family and tribal inheritance, reflecting God's order and provision for His people.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were called to obey God's laws regarding inheritance, demonstrating trust in His wisdom and provision.

Community and Identity
Maintaining tribal boundaries was crucial for preserving the identity and unity of the Israelite community, a principle that can be applied to maintaining spiritual and communal integrity today.

God's Provision for Women
The case of the daughters of Zelophehad shows God's care and provision for women, ensuring their rights and place within the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the issue of inheritance in Numbers 36:3 reflect God's concern for order and justice among His people?

2. In what ways does the preservation of tribal inheritance relate to the broader biblical theme of identity and community?

3. How can the principles of inheritance and obedience in this passage be applied to our spiritual inheritance in Christ?

4. What does the account of the daughters of Zelophehad teach us about God's provision for women and marginalized groups in society?

5. How can we ensure that our spiritual and communal "inheritance" is preserved and passed on to future generations, in light of this passage and related scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 17
This chapter recounts the allocation of land to the tribe of Manasseh, including the daughters of Zelophehad, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise regarding their inheritance.

Leviticus 25
Discusses the Year of Jubilee, which ensured that land would return to the original family, emphasizing the importance of maintaining tribal inheritance.

Ruth 4
The account of Boaz and Ruth illustrates the concept of kinsman-redeemer, which is related to preserving family inheritance within the tribe.