Numbers 36:10
Even as the LORD commanded Moses, so did the daughters of Zelophehad:
Original Language Analysis
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר
H834
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
1 of 9
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
יְהוָ֖ה
Even as the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֖ה
Even as the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
3 of 9
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כֵּ֥ן
H3651
כֵּ֥ן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
6 of 9
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
עָשׂ֖וּ
so did
H6213
עָשׂ֖וּ
so did
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
7 of 9
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
Historical Context
The daughters of Zelophehad (Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, Tirzah) became legal precedent-setters in ancient Israel. Their case is referenced three times in Scripture (Numbers 27, 36; Joshua 17:3-6), highlighting its significance. Their willing compliance with refined legislation demonstrated that their original petition sought justice, not mere self-interest.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you balance bold faith that petitions God for change with humble submission to His providence?
- What does the daughters' example teach about the difference between seeking justice and mere self-assertion?
- How can Christians advocate for needed change while maintaining a submissive spirit toward legitimate authority?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Even as the LORD commanded Moses, so did the daughters of Zelophehad—The Hebrew phrase ka'asher tzivah YHWH et-Moshe (כַּאֲשֶׁר צִוָּה יְהוָה אֶת־מֹשֶׁה, 'just as Yahweh commanded Moses') emphasizes complete obedience. These women who boldly approached Moses requesting inheritance rights (Numbers 27:1-4) now humbly submitted to marriage restrictions for the greater good. Their obedience brackets the entire narrative—they trusted God's justice when seeking rights and trusted His wisdom when accepting limitations.
True faith petitions boldly yet submits gladly. The daughters' example refutes the false dichotomy between advocating for justice and submitting to authority—both flow from covenant faithfulness.