What is the meaning of Numbers 27:2? the entrance to the Tent of Meeting - This was the recognized place where the LORD met with His people (Exodus 29:42-43). - Matters brought here carried the weight of covenant accountability; nothing hidden, everything before God (Leviticus 1:1; Numbers 12:5). - By appearing at the Tent’s entrance, the daughters of Zelophehad demonstrated faith that God Himself would hear and judge their plea (Psalm 62:8). stood before Moses - Moses was God’s appointed lawgiver and mediator (Exodus 18:15-16). - Standing “before” him acknowledged his authority while anticipating a just ruling in line with the written statutes (Deuteronomy 31:9-12). - Their posture reflects respect and confidence that God works through His chosen servant (Numbers 15:32-36). Eleazar the priest - Eleazar, son of Aaron, was now the high priest, the spiritual representative of the nation (Numbers 20:26-28). - Including him ensured the matter would be considered not only legally but also ceremonially and morally (Leviticus 10:11). - When they later receive their inheritance, Eleazar’s involvement confirms covenant continuity (Joshua 17:4). the leaders - These tribal heads served as judges and administrators (Exodus 18:21-22; Numbers 1:16). - Involving them safeguarded every tribe’s interests and prevented future disputes (Deuteronomy 1:13-17). - Their presence highlights that God’s law is applied communally, not in a vacuum. and the whole congregation - Public hearing provided transparency and set a precedent for all Israel (Leviticus 24:14; Deuteronomy 31:12). - The assembly could witness God’s justice, reinforcing national unity around His statutes (Joshua 8:34-35). - It modeled that no request was too personal to be aired before the faith community. and said - The daughters’ speech displays boldness rooted in covenant promises—“Ask, and it will be given to you” finds an early illustration here (cf. Matthew 7:7). - Their words would soon prompt new legislation, showing that godly petitions can shape the community’s future (Hebrews 4:16; James 1:5). - Speaking up affirmed their dignity as image-bearers and their trust that “righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne” (Psalm 89:14). summary Numbers 27:2 portrays a careful, orderly appeal made at the very doorway of God’s dwelling, before every level of divinely established authority. The scene teaches that believers may bring righteous concerns openly to God, confident that He hears, judges impartially, and can even expand our understanding of His law to ensure justice for all. |