Topical Encyclopedia Hepher is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. He is recognized as a descendant of Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob. Hepher's lineage is significant as it connects to the notable narrative of the daughters of Zelophehad, which addresses inheritance rights and the preservation of family lineage within the tribes of Israel.Genealogy and Tribal Affiliation Hepher is identified as the son of Gilead, who is a descendant of Manasseh. The genealogical record in the Book of Numbers provides insight into his place within the tribe: "The descendants of Manasseh: through Makir, the Makirite clan (Makir was the father of Gilead); through Gilead, the Gileadite clan. These were the descendants of Gilead: the descendants of Iezer, the descendants of Helek, the descendants of Asriel, the descendants of Shechem, the descendants of Shemida, the descendants of Hepher" (Numbers 26:29-32). This passage situates Hepher within the broader context of the tribe of Manasseh, highlighting his role as a progenitor within the clan structure. Hepher's Descendants and the Daughters of Zelophehad Hepher's significance is further underscored through his descendants, particularly in the narrative concerning the daughters of Zelophehad. Zelophehad, a descendant of Hepher, had no sons, only daughters: Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. This situation presented a legal and cultural challenge regarding inheritance rights, as inheritance traditionally passed through male heirs. The daughters of Zelophehad approached Moses and the leaders of Israel to plead their case for a share in their father's inheritance, stating, "Our father died in the wilderness. He was not among the followers of Korah, who banded together against the LORD; he died for his own sin and had no sons. Why should the name of our father disappear from his clan because he had no son? Give us property among our father’s brothers" (Numbers 27:3-4). Their plea was brought before the LORD, who affirmed their claim, stating, "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 for daughters in the absence of sons, ensuring the preservation of family names and property within the tribes of Israel. Cultural and Theological Implications The account of Hepher and his descendants, particularly through the account of the daughters of Zelophehad, holds significant cultural and theological implications. It highlights the importance of family lineage and inheritance in ancient Israelite society, as well as the adaptability of Mosaic Law to address unique circumstances. The narrative underscores the justice and fairness inherent in God's law, as it accommodates the needs of those who might otherwise be marginalized within the societal structure. Furthermore, the account of Hepher's descendants serves as a testament to the faith and courage of the daughters of Zelophehad, who respectfully challenged societal norms to secure their rightful inheritance. Their actions and the subsequent divine ruling reflect the broader biblical themes of justice, equity, and the upholding of family heritage within the covenant community of Israel. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 26:32,33And of Shemida, the family of the Shemidaites: and of Hepher, the family of the Hepherites. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 27:1 Joshua 17:2,3 Resources Who was Jonah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jonah try to go to Tarshish instead of Nineveh? | GotQuestions.org Was Jonah truly swallowed by a whale? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Hepher: A City West of the Jordan River Hepher: Son of Gilead, and Ancestor of Zelophehad Related Terms |
    |