Numbers Chapter 27: A Detailed Explanation

Introduction

Numbers 27 is a significant chapter in the Book of Numbers, a part of the Torah or Pentateuch, traditionally attributed to Moses. This chapter primarily focuses on two key events:

The case of Zelophehad’s daughters, which establishes a legal precedent for inheritance rights for women in Israel.
The appointment of Joshua as Moses’ successor, ensuring continuity in leadership as Israel prepares to enter the Promised Land.

Both events highlight themes of justice, leadership, obedience to God, and divine guidance.

Historical and Cultural Context

At this point in the biblical narrative, the Israelites are near the Promised Land, but Moses is nearing the end of his leadership. The laws concerning inheritance were traditionally patriarchal, meaning sons inherited land. However, the absence of a male heir in Zelophehad’s family leads to an unprecedented legal decision.

Additionally, Moses is informed that he will not enter Canaan due to his previous disobedience (Numbers 20:12). This necessitates the appointment of a new leader.

Verse-by-Verse Explanation

Verses 1–4: The Petition of Zelophehad’s Daughters

1 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.
2 And they stood before Moses, and before Eleazar the priest, and before the princes and all the congregation, by the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, saying,
3 Our father died in the wilderness, and he was not in the company of them that gathered themselves together against the Lord in the company of Korah; but died in his own sin, and had no sons.
4 Why should the name of our father be done away from among his family, because he hath no son? Give unto us therefore a possession among the brethren of our father.

Analysis:

The five daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—approach Moses and the leaders with a legal request.
Their father had died without sons, which meant that his name and property would be lost from their family.
They clarify that their father was not part of Korah’s rebellion (Numbers 16) but had died in the wilderness due to his own sins.
They argue that it would be unjust for their family line to lose its inheritance simply because their father had no male heirs.

This bold request is significant because, in the ancient Near Eastern context, women typically had no direct inheritance rights. Their approach demonstrates faith in God’s justice and courage to challenge an established norm.

Verses 5–11: God’s Response and a New Law on Inheritance

5 And Moses brought their cause before the Lord.
6 And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,
7 The daughters of Zelophehad speak right: thou shalt surely give them a possession of an inheritance among their father's brethren; and thou shalt cause the inheritance of their father to pass unto them.
8 And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a man die, and have no son, then ye shall cause his inheritance to pass unto his daughter.
9 And if he have no daughter, then ye shall give his inheritance unto his brethren.
10 And if he have no brethren, then ye shall give his inheritance unto his father's brethren.
11 And if his father have no brethren, then ye shall give his inheritance unto his kinsman that is next to him of his family, and he shall possess it: and it shall be unto the children of Israel a statute of judgment, as the Lord commanded Moses.

Analysis:

Moses, rather than making an immediate judgment, seeks divine guidance. This highlights his role as a mediator between God and the people.
God affirms the daughters' request and establishes a new legal precedent: if a man dies without a son, his inheritance should go to his daughters.
The passage also outlines a hierarchy of inheritance:
1. Son
2. Daughter
3. Brothers
4. Paternal uncles
5. Closest male relative

This ruling demonstrates God’s concern for justice and fairness, ensuring that no family is left without an inheritance. It also reinforces the importance of land as a divine gift to Israel.

Verses 12–14: Moses’ Fate is Sealed

12 And the Lord said unto Moses, Get thee up into this mount Abarim, and see the land which I have given unto the children of Israel.
13 And when thou hast seen it, thou also shalt be gathered unto thy people, as Aaron thy brother was gathered.
14 For ye rebelled against my commandment in the desert of Zin, in the strife of the congregation, to sanctify me at the water before their eyes: that is the water of Meribah in Kadesh in the wilderness of Zin.

Analysis:

God instructs Moses to ascend Mount Abarim to view the Promised Land, a bittersweet moment as Moses will not enter it.
His exclusion is a consequence of his disobedience at Meribah (Numbers 20:8-12), where he struck the rock instead of speaking to it.
This demonstrates the seriousness of obeying God’s commands, even for great leaders.

Verses 15–17: Moses’ Request for a Successor

15 And Moses spake unto the Lord, saying,
16 Let the Lord, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation,
17 Which may go out before them, and which may go in before them, and which may lead them out, and which may bring them in; that the congregation of the Lord be not as sheep which have no shepherd.

Analysis:

Moses, rather than pleading for his own entry into Canaan, focuses on the well-being of Israel.
He asks God to appoint a leader who will guide them like a shepherd, emphasizing the need for wise and capable leadership.

Verses 18–23: Joshua’s Commissioning

18 And the Lord said unto Moses, Take thee Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit, and lay thine hand upon him.
19 And set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation; and give him a charge in their sight.
20 And thou shalt put some of thine honour upon him, that all the congregation of the children of Israel may be obedient.
21 And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall ask counsel for him after the judgment of Urim before the Lord: at his word shall they go out, and at his word they shall come in, both he, and all the children of Israel with him, even all the congregation.
22 And Moses did as the Lord commanded him: and he took Joshua, and set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation:
23 And he laid his hands upon him, and gave him a charge, as the Lord commanded by the hand of Moses.

Analysis:

Joshua is chosen as Moses’ successor due to his faithfulness and the presence of God’s Spirit within him.
The laying of hands symbolizes the transfer of authority.
Eleazar, the high priest, will guide Joshua using the Urim (sacred lots for divine decisions).
This event establishes a model for leadership transitions in Israel.

Theological Themes and Significance

Justice and Gender Equity – The inheritance law advances women’s rights in a patriarchal society.
Obedience and Consequences – Moses’ punishment illustrates that leaders are held to high standards.
Divine Guidance in Leadership – The succession of Joshua ensures God’s plan continues.
The Importance of Legacy – Ensuring inheritance preserves family heritage and God’s covenant.

Conclusion

Numbers 27 is a pivotal chapter that combines legal, ethical, and leadership themes. It sets a precedent for inheritance laws, highlights Moses’ humility, and prepares Israel for new leadership. The chapter ultimately reinforces God’s justice, faithfulness, and sovereign guidance.

BIBLE LIBRARY777

Thursday, March 27, 2025