Numbers 36:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 36:6
6 This is the thing which the LORD doth command concerning the daughters of Zelophehad, saying, Let them marry to whom they think best; only to the family of the tribe of their father shall they marry.
Chapter Context
Numbers 36 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, righteousness, prayer. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-13: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 36:6
6 This is the thing which the LORD doth command concerning the daughters of Zelophehad, saying, Let them marry to whom they think best; only to the family of the tribe of their father shall they marry.
Analysis
God addresses the inheritance rights of Zelophehad's daughters, commanding they marry within their father's tribe to preserve tribal inheritance. This supplementary law balances two principles: women's inheritance rights (Num 27:1-11) and tribal land preservation. The phrase 'let them marry to whom they think best' shows God grants freedom within His boundaries - liberty with limits. This case demonstrates Scripture's progressive clarification: earlier revelation (ch 27) is refined by subsequent revelation (ch 36) as new situations arise. The principle applies to Christian freedom: we're free to marry 'only in the Lord' (1 Cor 7:39) - liberty bounded by God's wisdom.
Historical Context
This ruling addressed a unique situation: Zelophehad had no sons, only five daughters (Num 27:1). The earlier judgment gave them inheritance rights - revolutionary for that era. However, if they married outside Manasseh, their land would transfer to other tribes in Jubilee, fragmenting tribal territories. This clarifying law ensured land stayed within tribes while honoring women's property rights. The daughters' willing obedience (v.10-12) demonstrates humble submission to God's wise boundaries.
Reflection
- How do you balance exercising Christian liberty while staying within God's wise boundaries for flourishing?
- Are there areas where you're claiming freedom that actually violate God's protective limits?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Genesis 24:3
- Parallel theme: Numbers 36:12, 2 Corinthians 6:14