Old Testament
Numbers 26:33
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we learn about Zelophehad, a man from the tribe of Manasseh, who had no sons, only daughters.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Now Zelophehad son of Hepher had no sons — only daughters. Their names were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah.
And Zelophehad the son of Hepher had no sons, but daughters: and the names of the daughters of Zelophehad were Mahlah, and Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about Zelophehad, a man from the tribe of Manasseh, who had no sons, only daughters. This detail is significant because, in ancient Israelite culture, inheritance typically passed through male heirs. The mention of his daughters—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—highlights a unique situation where women are recognized in the lineage and inheritance discussions. This sets the stage for later events in the book of Numbers, where these daughters will advocate for their right to inherit their father's property. Their names are important as they represent a shift in the traditional understanding of inheritance laws, emphasizing that women can also be rightful heirs. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of family lineage and the evolving roles of women in society, particularly in matters of inheritance and rights.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 26:33 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize and support the rights of all individuals, regardless of gender. It reminds us to challenge outdated norms and advocate for fairness and equality in our communities. Everyone deserves a voice and the opportunity to inherit their rightful place in society.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 26:33 mean?
Numbers 26:33 highlights Zelophehad, a man from the tribe of Manasseh, who had only daughters and no sons. This situation is significant as it challenges traditional inheritance norms, showing that women can also be recognized as heirs in their father's lineage.
What is the significance of Zelophehad's daughters in Numbers 26:33?
The daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—are significant because they represent a shift in inheritance laws, advocating for their rights to inherit their father's property in a male-dominated society.
What does the verse Numbers 26:33 tell us about family lineage?
This verse emphasizes the importance of family lineage by mentioning Zelophehad's daughters, illustrating that lineage can include women and that they can have a rightful place in inheritance discussions.
How does Numbers 26:33 relate to women's rights?
Numbers 26:33 is an early example of women's rights in inheritance, as it acknowledges Zelophehad's daughters and sets the stage for their future advocacy for equal rights to inherit, challenging cultural norms of the time.
The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
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