Old Testament
Numbers 27:10
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If he has no brothers, give his inheritance to his father's brothers.
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And if he have no brethren, then ye shall give his inheritance unto his father’s brethren.
What Numbers 27:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 27:10, the instruction is given regarding inheritance laws in Israel. If a man dies without any brothers, his inheritance should not be lost or passed to outsiders. Instead, it should go to his father's brothers, ensuring that the family lineage and property remain within the family. This reflects the importance of family ties and the preservation of inheritance within the tribe. The verse emphasizes the need for fairness and continuity in family heritage, ensuring that the deceased's legacy is honored and that the family's possessions are kept intact. This law was part of a broader system of regulations that governed property rights and inheritance, highlighting the significance of familial relationships in ancient Israelite society. It also illustrates God's concern for justice and order in community life, ensuring that no one is left without support or resources after the loss of a family member.
How to apply Numbers 27:10 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of family and the need to care for one another's legacies. In modern contexts, it encourages us to think about how we manage our resources and support our relatives, ensuring that family ties are honored and maintained even after death.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Daughters of Zelophehad (Numbers 27:1–11)
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Moses

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 27:10 say about inheritance?
Numbers 27:10 states that if a man dies without brothers, his inheritance should be passed to his father's brothers. This ensures that the family property stays within the family and reflects the importance of maintaining family ties and lineage.
Why is family inheritance important in Numbers 27:10?
Family inheritance is crucial in Numbers 27:10 as it preserves the family legacy and ensures that property remains within the tribe. This law highlights the significance of familial relationships and the need for justice and order in community life, preventing outsiders from taking what rightfully belongs to the family.
How can we apply Numbers 27:10 in modern life?
In modern life, Numbers 27:10 encourages us to consider how we manage our resources and support our relatives. It reminds us to honor family ties and legacies, ensuring that we care for one another and maintain connections even after a family member passes away.
What does this verse reveal about God's view on justice?
This verse reveals that God values justice and order within the community. By establishing laws regarding inheritance, God ensures that families are supported and that no one is left without resources after the loss of a loved one, reflecting His concern for fairness and care in human relationships.
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