“Even as the LORD commanded Moses, so did the daughters of Zelophehad.”
Background:The book of Numbers recounts the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness, as they were led by Moses and received instructions from God. In Numbers 27, we are introduced to a situation involving the daughters of Zelophehad.
The daughters of Zelophehad:Zelophehad was from the tribe of Manasseh, and he had five daughters-Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. These women approached Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the leaders of the Israelite community with a request regarding their inheritance.
The context of inheritance:Inheritance laws in ancient Israel generally favoured the male members of the family. However, Zelophehad had died without any sons, and his daughters were concerned about losing their father’s inheritance. They argued that if they had no brothers, their father’s name would be forgotten and his land would be given to someone else.
The plea for justice:The daughters of Zelophehad appealed to Moses and the leaders, expressing their concern and desire for fairness. They requested that they be given a possession among their father’s brothers, allowing their family line to continue and receive the land inheritance.
God’s response:After hearing their plea, Moses brought their case before the Lord. God responded by affirming the request of the daughters of Zelophehad. The Lord commanded Moses to grant them their father’s inheritance and affirmed their right to marry anyone from their tribe. This decision established a new provision in the inheritance laws of Israel.
Faithfulness and obedience:Numbers 36:10 highlights the faithfulness and obedience of the daughters of Zelophehad. They followed the commandments of the Lord, just as Moses had instructed them. Their willingness to trust and obey God’s guidance led to a significant change in the inheritance laws of Israel.
Lessons from Numbers 36:10: This verse demonstrates several important lessons. It emphasises the importance of seeking justice and fairness, even in matters that may seem insignificant or against societal norms. It also reveals God’s concern for individuals and their specific situations, showing that He listens and responds to those who seek Him with genuine hearts. Additionally, it highlights the significance of obedience to God’s commands, as the daughters of Zelophehad faithfully followed what they were instructed to do.
In summary, Numbers 36:10 showcases the daughters of Zelophehad’s obedience to the Lord’s commandments. Their plea for fairness and their trust in God’s guidance led to a change in inheritance laws, allowing them to receive their father’s inheritance and continue their family line. This verse teaches us about seeking justice, God’s concern for individuals, and the importance of obedience.
