Old Testament
Numbers 27:1
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 the daughters of Zelophehad, who is a descendant of Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
The daughters of Zelophehad came forward. Zelophehad was the son of Hepher, son of Gilead, son of Machir, son of Manasseh — from the clan of Manasseh son of Joseph. His daughters' names were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah.
Then came the daughters of Zelophehad, the son of Hepher, the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh, of the families of Manasseh the son of Joseph: and these are the names of his daughters; Mahlah, Noah, and Hoglah, and Milcah, and Tirzah.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about the daughters of Zelophehad, who is a descendant of Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel. The genealogy is important as it establishes their family lineage and connection to the larger Israelite community. The daughters—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—are significant because they are about to advocate for their rights to inherit their father's land, which was a crucial issue in a patriarchal society. This moment highlights the importance of women in biblical narratives and their roles in seeking justice and equality. The mention of their names emphasizes their individuality and the importance of their claim, setting the stage for a pivotal moment in Israel's history regarding inheritance laws. This verse serves as a reminder of the value of family heritage and the courage to stand up for one's rights, especially in challenging societal norms.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 27:1 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of standing up for our rights and the rights of others, especially in situations where societal norms may be unjust. It reminds us to value our heritage and advocate for fairness in our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 27:1 mean?
Numbers 27:1 introduces the daughters of Zelophehad, highlighting their lineage from the tribe of Manasseh. This verse sets the stage for their significant role in advocating for their inheritance rights in a patriarchal society.
Who are the daughters of Zelophehad mentioned in Numbers 27:1?
The daughters of Zelophehad are Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. Their names are important as they represent women who challenge societal norms regarding inheritance.
What is the significance of the genealogy in Numbers 27:1?
The genealogy in Numbers 27:1 establishes the family lineage of Zelophehad and his daughters, connecting them to the broader Israelite community. It emphasizes their rightful claim to inheritance based on their ancestry.
What issue do the daughters of Zelophehad address in Numbers 27:1?
In Numbers 27:1, the daughters of Zelophehad come forward to advocate for their right to inherit their father's land, addressing the issue of inheritance laws in a male-dominated society.

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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