Numbers 36:12

They married within the clans of the descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph, and their inheritance remained within the tribe of their father's clan.

Study Bible

They married
The Hebrew root for "married" is "לָקַח" (laqach), which means to take or to receive. In the context of ancient Israel, marriage was not only a personal union but also a communal and covenantal act. It was a means of preserving family lineage and inheritance. This phrase highlights the importance of marriage in maintaining the social and spiritual fabric of the Israelite community.

those from the families
The term "families" comes from the Hebrew "מִשְׁפָּחוֹת" (mishpachot), indicating extended family units or clans. In ancient Israel, these family groups were foundational to societal structure, providing identity and support. This phrase underscores the communal nature of Israelite society, where family ties were integral to one's identity and inheritance.

of the descendants of Manasseh
"Descendants" is derived from the Hebrew "בְּנֵי" (benei), meaning sons or children. Manasseh, one of Joseph's sons, was a significant tribe in Israel. This phrase situates the narrative within the broader context of Israel's tribal system, emphasizing the continuity of God's promises to the patriarchs through their descendants.

son of Joseph
Joseph, a key figure in Genesis, is remembered for his faithfulness and leadership. His legacy continued through his sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, who became tribes in Israel. This reference to Joseph connects the narrative to the larger account of God's providence and faithfulness to His people, as seen in Joseph's life.

and their inheritance
The Hebrew word for "inheritance" is "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), which refers to a possession or heritage. In Israel, land inheritance was a divine gift, a tangible sign of God's covenant with His people. This phrase highlights the sacred nature of inheritance, which was to be preserved within the tribe to maintain the integrity of God's promises.

remained within the tribe
The concept of remaining within the tribe underscores the importance of tribal identity and cohesion. The Hebrew root "שָׁאַר" (sha'ar) means to remain or to be left. This phrase emphasizes the necessity of keeping inheritances within the tribe to ensure the stability and continuity of the tribal system established by God.

of their father’s clan
The term "clan" is "מִשְׁפָּחָה" (mishpachah) in Hebrew, similar to "families." It refers to a subgroup within a tribe, often consisting of several extended families. This phrase highlights the patriarchal structure of Israelite society, where the father's lineage determined one's place and inheritance within the community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Daughters of Zelophehad
These women were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah, daughters of Zelophehad, who belonged to the tribe of Manasseh. They are notable for their appeal to Moses for the right to inherit their father's land, as he had no sons.

2. Manasseh
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Manasseh, the son of Joseph. The tribe was allotted land on both sides of the Jordan River.

3. Joseph
The father of Manasseh, one of the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel), whose account is pivotal in the latter part of Genesis. Joseph's faithfulness and leadership were instrumental in the survival of the Israelites during a time of famine.

4. Inheritance Laws
The context of this passage involves the laws of inheritance for the Israelites, particularly concerning the preservation of tribal land within the family lineage.

5. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received and communicated God's laws, including those concerning inheritance, to the people.

Teaching Points

Preservation of Family Heritage
The passage emphasizes the importance of maintaining family heritage and inheritance within the tribe, reflecting God's design for order and continuity among His people.

Obedience to God's Commands
The daughters of Zelophehad's adherence to God's command regarding marriage within their tribe demonstrates obedience and respect for divine law, serving as a model for believers today.

God's Provision and Justice
God's provision for the daughters of Zelophehad underscores His justice and care for all individuals, ensuring that everyone has a place and inheritance in His plan.

Community and Identity
The passage highlights the significance of community and identity within the people of God, encouraging believers to value their spiritual heritage and community.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of preserving family and spiritual heritage in our modern context?

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

4. What lessons can we learn from the obedience of the daughters of Zelophehad in maintaining their tribal identity, and how can this apply to our identity in Christ?

5. How do the inheritance laws in Numbers 36 reflect God's concern for community and order, and how can we foster these values in our church communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 17
This chapter further discusses the inheritance of the tribe of Manasseh, including the daughters of Zelophehad, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promises regarding land distribution.

Genesis 48
This passage describes Jacob's blessing of Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, establishing their place among the tribes of Israel and setting the stage for their future inheritance.

Ruth 4
The account of Ruth and Boaz illustrates the importance of preserving family inheritance and lineage, similar to the concerns addressed in Numbers 36.