Topical Bible: Fatherless: Daughters of Zelophehad

◄ Fatherless: Daughters of Zelophehad ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The account of the daughters of Zelophehad is a significant narrative found in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. This account highlights issues of inheritance, justice, and the role of women within the Israelite community. The daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—are notable for their boldness and faith in approaching Moses and the leaders of Israel to claim their rights.

Biblical Context

The narrative is set during the Israelites' wilderness journey, as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. Zelophehad, a descendant of Manasseh, son of Joseph, died without leaving any sons. According to the prevailing customs and laws, inheritance was typically passed through male descendants. This situation posed a significant challenge for Zelophehad's daughters, as they faced the prospect of losing their father's inheritance and, consequently, their place within the tribal allotments.

The Petition

In Numbers 27:1-4 , the daughters of Zelophehad present their case: "Then the daughters of Zelophehad came forward... They stood before Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the whole assembly at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting and said, '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 the name of our father disappear from his clan because he had no son? Give us property among our father’s relatives.'"

Their appeal is remarkable for its directness and the courage it took to challenge the status quo. The daughters argue not only for their right to inherit but also for the preservation of their father's name and legacy within Israel.

Divine Response and Legal Precedent

Moses brings their case before the LORD, who responds affirmatively. Numbers 27:6-7 records God's instruction: "And the LORD said to Moses, '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.'"

This divine ruling establishes a new legal precedent in Israelite law, ensuring that daughters could inherit if a man died without sons. It underscores the importance of justice and equity within the community, reflecting God's concern for the vulnerable and marginalized.

Further Developments

The issue of inheritance for the daughters of Zelophehad is revisited in Numbers 36. The leaders of the tribe of Manasseh express concern that if the daughters marry outside their tribe, their inheritance would transfer to another tribe, disrupting the tribal allotments. In response, God commands that the daughters marry within their father's tribal clan to preserve the inheritance within the tribe.

Theological Implications

The account of the daughters of Zelophehad is a profound testament to God's justice and the value He places on each individual within His covenant community. It highlights the importance of advocating for one's rights within the framework of God's law and the willingness of God to adapt legal structures to ensure fairness and equity. This narrative also serves as an early indication of the dignity and agency afforded to women within the biblical tradition, challenging cultural norms and setting a precedent for future generations.

Legacy

The daughters of Zelophehad are remembered for their faith, courage, and the significant legal and social changes their actions precipitated. Their account is a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking justice and the transformative impact of faith-driven advocacy within the community of God's people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 27:1-5
Then came the daughters of Zelophehad, the son of Hepher, the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh, of the families of Manasseh the son of Joseph: and these are the names of his daughters; Mahlah, Noah, and Hoglah, and Milcah, and Tirzah.
Torrey's Topical Textbook