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Book of Numbers - Chapter 26 - Verse 33

26:33
And Zelophehad the son of Hepher had no sons, but daughters: and the names of the daughters of Zelophehad were Mahlah, and Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah.

Meaning

Although the verse may appear simple at first glance, it holds significant meaning in the context of ancient Hebrew culture and laws. In the patriarchal society of the time, lineage and inheritance were typically passed down through male descendants. However, in the case of Zelophehad, he had no sons to carry on his name and inherit his possessions. This situation presented a challenge within the Israelite community, as it raised questions about how the family's land and property would be passed on. The introduction of Zelophehad's daughters - Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah - breaks tradition and challenges the norms of the time. The mention of these daughters by name highlights their importance and agency, as they would play a crucial role in shaping the future of their family. This passage reflects a shift towards a more inclusive and equitable society, where women have a voice and are recognized for their contributions. It showcases the complexity of family dynamics and inheritance laws within the Israelite community, providing valuable insights into ancient customs and traditions.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological implications of the verse regarding Zelophehad's daughters in Numbers 26:33, it is important to note that during ancient Israelite society, the inheritance of land and property was typically passed down through male descendants. However, in this particular case, Zelophehad only had daughters and no sons. This situation raised questions about how the daughters would inherit their father's portion. The mention of the daughters by name, Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah, highlights their significance in the narrative. The fact that their names are recorded suggests that they played a crucial role in upholding the family lineage and preserving the inheritance within the tribe of Manasseh. This account reinforces the idea that God's plan and provision can transcend societal norms and expectations, ensuring that all individuals are valued and provided for according to His divine will.

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