The daughters of Zelophehad are notable figures in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. They are often discussed in the context of inheritance laws and the rights of women within the Israelite community. The narrative of these five sisters—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—provides a significant example of faith, courage, and the pursuit of justice within the biblical tradition.

Biblical Account

The account of the daughters of Zelophehad is found in Numbers 27:1-11. Zelophehad, a descendant of Manasseh, the son of Joseph, died without leaving any sons. His daughters approached Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the entire assembly at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. They presented their case, saying, "Our father died in the wilderness. He was not among the followers of Korah, who banded together against the LORD, but he died for his own sin and left no sons. Why should our father’s name disappear from his clan because he had no son? Give us property among our father’s relatives" (Numbers 27:3-4).

Moses brought their case before the LORD, and the LORD responded affirmatively, saying, "The daughters of Zelophehad speak correctly. You certainly must give them property as an inheritance among their father’s brothers and transfer their father’s inheritance to them" (Numbers 27:7). This divine ruling established a precedent for inheritance rights, ensuring that the name and property of a man without sons could be preserved through his daughters.

Legal and Theological Implications

The case of the daughters of Zelophehad had profound legal implications for the Israelite community. It led to the establishment of a new inheritance law, which is further detailed in Numbers 36. The LORD commanded that if a man dies without a son, his inheritance should pass to his daughter. If he has no daughter, it should go to his brothers, and if he has no brothers, to his father’s brothers, and so on (Numbers 27:8-11).

This legal provision underscored the importance of maintaining family inheritance within the tribe, preserving the tribal allotments given by God. It also highlighted the value and dignity of women within the covenant community, as they were recognized as rightful heirs in the absence of male offspring.

Cultural Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, inheritance typically passed through the male line. The boldness of the daughters of Zelophehad in approaching the male leadership of Israel was remarkable. Their actions demonstrated a deep understanding of their rights and responsibilities within the covenant community. Their faith in God's justice and their willingness to seek a righteous resolution reflect the broader biblical theme of God's concern for justice and equity.

Legacy

The legacy of the daughters of Zelophehad extends beyond their immediate legal victory. They are remembered as pioneers for women's rights within the biblical narrative, and their account is a testament to the possibility of change within divinely ordained structures when approached with faith and integrity. Their narrative is a powerful reminder of God's willingness to listen to the pleas of His people and to enact justice in accordance with His divine will.Numbers 27:1-5
Then came the daughters of Zelophehad, the son of Hepher, the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh, of the families of Manasseh the son of Joseph: and these are the names of his daughters; Mahlah, Noah, and Hoglah, and Milcah, and Tirzah.
Nave's Topical Index

Who were the daughters of Zelophehad? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Muhammad? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Billy Sunday? | GotQuestions.org

Orphan: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus