This is what the Lord commands concerning the daughters of Zelophehad: Let them marry anyone they like, as long as it is within their own ancestral tribe.
The daughters of Zelophehad had previously been granted the right to inherit their father's land (Numbers 27:1-11). In Numbers 36, the leaders of the tribe of Manasseh raised a concern about the inheritance being transferred to other tribes if the daughters married outside their tribe. The Lord's command ensures that the inheritance remains within the tribe.
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Fulfilled inJoshua 17:3-6
The daughters of Zelophehad married within their tribe, as commanded, ensuring that their inheritance remained within the tribe of Manasseh.
This command underscores the importance of maintaining tribal inheritance and identity within Israel, reflecting God's covenantal promises to the tribes. It also highlights God's provision and justice in addressing the concerns of His people.