Numbers 27:7 (KJV)

What does Numbers 27:7 mean?

Numbers 27:7 records God affirming that the daughters of Zelophehad are correct in their request, and He commands that they should receive a share of land among their father’s relatives, with their father’s inheritance passing to them. This verse establishes that these women have the right to inherit property, even though inheritance usually went to sons.

God is speaking to Moses after the daughters of Zelophehad approached him with their concern that their family would lose its inheritance because their father died without sons. God’s response here sets a precedent for inheritance laws among the Israelites, showing that justice and fairness should apply even when tradition did not make clear provision. This moment is a turning point for women’s rights to property in ancient Israel.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 27:7

• "right" (כֵּן, ken): This word means "correct" or "just." God is not only granting the request but declaring it to be just and proper, giving strong weight to the daughters’ claim.
• "possession" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah): This term refers to a hereditary portion of land. The use of this word emphasizes that the daughters are to receive a permanent, legal share, not just a temporary or symbolic gift.
• "pass" (עָבַר, avar): This verb means "to pass over" or "transfer." Here, it highlights the formal transfer of inheritance from father to daughters, a significant legal act in the community.

Why Numbers 27:7 matters

• Numbers 27:7 clarifies that God’s justice is not bound by tradition; He upholds the rights of those who might otherwise be overlooked, in this case, women without brothers.
• This verse is a key legal turning point in Israel’s laws about inheritance, showing that God’s instructions could adapt to real-life situations and ensure fairness.
• The verse connects to the larger story by showing how the Israelites handled challenges and questions during their journey, and how God’s guidance shaped their community’s laws and values.