Mahlah, Tirzah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Noah are the five daughters of Zelophehad, a member of the tribe of Manasseh, son of Joseph. Their account is a significant narrative in the Old Testament, highlighting issues of inheritance and the rights of women within the Israelite community. The account of these five sisters is primarily found in the Book of Numbers, with additional references in Joshua and 1 Chronicles.

Biblical Account:

The daughters of Zelophehad first appear in Numbers 26:33, where they are listed in the census of the Israelites in the wilderness. Their father, Zelophehad, had no sons, which presented a challenge under the existing inheritance laws that favored male heirs. In Numbers 27:1-11, Mahlah, Tirzah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Noah courageously approach Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the entire assembly at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. They present 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 brings their case before the LORD, who responds 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 establishes a precedent for inheritance rights, allowing daughters to inherit if there are no sons, thus preserving the family lineage and property within the tribe.

The daughters of Zelophehad are mentioned again in Numbers 36, where the issue of their marriage is addressed. The leaders of the tribe of Manasseh express concern that if the daughters marry outside their tribe, their inheritance would transfer to another tribe. The LORD commands through Moses that the daughters may marry anyone they wish, but only within their father’s tribal clan, ensuring that the inheritance remains within the tribe of Manasseh.

In Joshua 17:3-6, the daughters of Zelophehad are again acknowledged as they receive their inheritance in the Promised Land, further affirming their rights and the LORD's command.

Significance:

The account of Mahlah, Tirzah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Noah is significant for several reasons. It highlights the importance of preserving family inheritance and the continuity of tribal identity within Israel. Their case led to a change in the inheritance laws, demonstrating the adaptability of the law to address specific situations and the LORD's justice and fairness.

Moreover, the narrative underscores the active role of women in the biblical text, showcasing their courage and faith in approaching the leaders and advocating for their rights. The daughters of Zelophehad are often seen as pioneers for women's rights within the biblical context, as their actions led to a legal reform that acknowledged the rights of women to inherit property.

Genealogical and Historical Context:

The daughters of Zelophehad belong to the tribe of Manasseh, one of the two tribes descended from Joseph, the son of Jacob. Their account is set during the Israelites' journey in the wilderness, after the exodus from Egypt and before the conquest of Canaan. This period was marked by the establishment of laws and regulations that would govern the Israelite community in the Promised Land.

In 1 Chronicles 7:15, the genealogy of the tribe of Manasseh is mentioned, providing a broader context for the family of Zelophehad. The narrative of the daughters of Zelophehad serves as a testament to the LORD's provision and the importance of maintaining the integrity of the tribal inheritance system.

Conclusion:

The account of Mahlah, Tirzah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Noah is a powerful testament to the LORD's justice and the role of women in the biblical narrative. Their account is a reminder of the importance of faith, courage, and the pursuit of justice within the community of God's people.