Old Testament
Numbers 27:8
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, God instructs Moses to communicate a specific law regarding inheritance in Israel.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Tell the people of Israel: 'If a man dies without a son, his inheritance passes to his daughter.
And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a man die, and have no son, then ye shall cause his inheritance to pass unto his daughter.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Moses to communicate a specific law regarding inheritance in Israel. If a man dies and does not have any sons, his property and possessions should be passed on to his daughter instead. This was a significant shift in the cultural norms of the time, where inheritance typically went to male heirs. This law ensures that daughters are not left without support or resources in the absence of a male heir. It highlights the importance of women in society and their rights to inherit property, which was a progressive step for the time. This commandment reflects God's concern for justice and equity within the community, ensuring that all family members, regardless of gender, are cared for and provided for after the death of a family member. It also emphasizes the continuity of family lineage and the importance of maintaining family property within the family unit, even if it means breaking traditional norms.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 27:8 to your life
This verse encourages us to consider fairness and equity in our own practices regarding inheritance and support for family members. It challenges societal norms that may overlook the rights of women and reminds us to ensure that all individuals are treated justly and provided for, regardless of gender.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 27:8 mean?
Numbers 27:8 conveys God's instruction that if a man dies without a son, his inheritance should go to his daughter. This law was significant as it recognized women's rights to inherit property, challenging the traditional norms of male-only inheritance.
What is the significance of inheritance in Numbers 27:8?
The significance of inheritance in Numbers 27:8 lies in its progressive stance on gender equality, ensuring that daughters receive support and resources when there are no male heirs. This reflects a broader commitment to justice and equity within the community.
How does Numbers 27:8 reflect cultural norms?
Numbers 27:8 reflects a challenge to cultural norms of its time by granting inheritance rights to women. This commandment indicates a move towards more equitable treatment of women in society, highlighting their role and rights.
What are the themes in Numbers 27:8?
The themes in Numbers 27:8 include inheritance, gender equality, family rights, justice, and the challenge of cultural norms. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all family members are cared for after the death of a relative.
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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