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The Case of the Daughters of Zelophehad:
A Tribute to Women’s Rights in Numbers 27:1-11 

International Women’s Day is observed every year on March 8th. It offers a chance to contemplate the advancements achieved, to push for change, and to pay tribute to the acts of bravery and perseverance shown by ordinary women who have played extraordinary roles in the history of their nations and communities.

The theme for the 2024 celebration is “Count Her In: Accelerating Gender Equality Through Economic Empowerment.” This theme is in line with the main focus of the UN 68th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW 68) and seeks to investigate pathways to enhance economic inclusion for women and girls worldwide.

In the ancient times of the Israelites, inheritance was a crucial matter, determining not just property ownership but also social standing and security for future generations. The story of the daughters of Zelophehad, found in the book of Numbers, chapter 27, verses 1 to 11, stands out as a significant narrative that highlights the value of justice, equality, and the empowerment of women in the biblical tradition. The passage begins with the daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—approaching Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the entire assembly at the entrance of the Tabernacle. Their father, Zelophehad, had died in the wilderness, and he had no sons to inherit his possessions. In a society where inheritance typically passed from father to son, this presented a dilemma for the daughters. They stood before the assembly to present their case:

“Our father died in the wilderness. He was not among Korah’s followers, who banded together against the Lord, but he died for his own sin and left no sons. Why should our father’s name disappear from his clan because he had no son? Give us property among our father’s relatives.” (Numbers 27:3-4)

Their request was not merely a plea for personal gain but a demand for justice and fairness. They sought to ensure that their father’s name and legacy would not be erased simply because he had no male heirs. This act of boldness in approaching the highest authority figures of their community reflects the courage and determination of these women. Moses, known for his role as the lawgiver and mediator between God and the Israelites, took their case before the Lord. The response he received affirmed the righteousness of the daughters’ request:

“What Zelophehad’s daughters are saying is right. You must certainly give them property as an inheritance among their father’s relatives and give their father’s inheritance to them.” (Numbers 27:7)

God, through Moses, established a new precedent in inheritance laws. The daughters of Zelophehad were to receive their father’s inheritance, setting a legal standard that ensured the preservation of family heritage through daughters when no sons were present. This decision not only addressed the specific case of Zelophehad’s daughters but also established a broader principle of justice and equity within Israelite society. The significance of this passage goes beyond its legal implications. It challenges traditional notions of inheritance, elevating the status of women as rightful heirs and ensuring their economic security within their families. It stands as a testament to the recognition of women’s rights and their active participation in the shaping of societal norms.

Moreover, the story of the daughters of Zelophehad illustrates the importance of speaking up against injustice. These women did not passively accept their fate but boldly stepped forward to demand what was rightfully theirs. In doing so, they contributed to the development of a more just and inclusive community. As we reflect on this passage today, it serves as a reminder of the enduring value of justice, equality, and the empowerment of all members of society, regardless of gender. The daughters of Zelophehad, through their courage and conviction, have left an indelible mark on the biblical narrative, inspiring generations to come with their example of standing up for what is right.

In the end, the story of the daughters of Zelophehad is not just a legal case in ancient Israel; it is a timeless lesson in the pursuit of justice and the recognition of the inherent dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of their gender or social status. Furthermore, an intriguing incident recorded in Luke 10:38-42, during the ministry of Jesus, prompts reflection on the denial of women’s rights to pursue theological studies in our current context. Jesus, as a Rabbi and Jewish Teacher, challenged societal norms by opening the doors of ministry to women, who were often restricted from public participation. In this context, Jesus affirmed Mary’s autonomy and validated a woman’s right to choose study over traditional domestic roles. He demonstrated that women should not be confined to the kitchen but should have the freedom to pursue intellectual and spiritual endeavors.

There are many biblical passages with an example of how women, through faith, can courageously raise their voices and address their circumstances, ultimately becoming agents of change. On the other hand, there are many women who through their prayer and faith battle their struggle silently becoming the role model of faith to our present generation. In Numbers 27:1-11, these women’s courageous act of faith established a new precedent, a new law. It paved the way for a whole new realm of possibilities. In our time, we need modern-day daughters of Zelophehad—women who are willing to take bold steps of faith to illuminate new understandings about the treatment of women.

Faith is a vital component. Just as in any era, faith remains the foundation of blessings. Nothing from God enters one’s life except through the channel of faith. Every blessing, achievement, or victory truly becomes one’s own only when claimed through faith. Therefore, faith—both in the era of our scripture passage and in our present age—is the key to receiving God’s blessings. Women must boldly speak about their experiences, with faith, challenging the culture of silence and endurance. Faith inherently challenges traditions, calling us to embrace new directions against universally accepted norms and traditional beliefs. To live by faith means making choices that leads us away from the commonly accepted paths. Women must have the faith to challenge cultural norms that oppress them. Remaining silent is tantamount to endorsing injustice. Jesus affirmed in Matthew 17:20-21, even a small amount of faith, like a mustard seed, can move mountains, uproot trees, and bring about remarkable change. When we begin to exercise faith, we inspire others to do the same. God calls us to lead lives filled with faith and action. This is how God transforms human history.

Sushana Pramanik
Translation Advisor, The Bible Society of India

Scripture Engagement Program Implemented in BSI, Andaman and Nicobar Islands during January 21 to February 4, 2024.

Free Scripture distributions were held in five  different churches such as St. Mary Orthodox Church  Mohanpura, Port Blair  and Methodist church Bambooflat on 21 st January- 2024, Lugyi Memorial Karen Baptist Church Webi, Mayabunder and CSI church shivpur North and  Middle Andaman on 28^th January, 2024 and finally in Holy Trinity Methodist Church on 4^th February, 2024.

Church Pastors and Auxiliary Sceretary engaged the communities by preaching the Word of God and sharing the manifold ministry of the BSI.  All the pastors and congregations personally are very thankful to BSI for reaching out to the needy with free distributions of the Bibles in various languages. The beneficiaries were so thrilled and excited  while receiving the Scriptures and emotionally with teary eyes thanked God for the kind of ministry Bible society is doing. They were full of gratitude and promised to support our ministry in whatever way they can with prayers. We thank God and pray for all beneficiaries that God will continue to talk to them, abide with them and encourage them to enable them to navigate their lives in the midst of various challenges. The BSI – ANIs is grateful to our sponsors and the Central office for this journey of faith and support in times of need.

KERALA AUXILIARY

Scripture Engagement Programme for Poor Widows and Suffering Women

The Church, Public Relations & Resource Mobilization Department of the Bible Society of India initiated the Project for Women as part of the Scripture Engagement Programme. The Kerala Auxiliary conducted various Scripture Engagement programs in different parts of Kerala and distributed Bibles free of cost to the persons coming under the Project during December 25, 2023 to February 18, 2024.

Through BSI Kozhencherry Branch Bibles were distributed to the inmates of Mahathma JanaSevana Kendram, Kozhencherry. The light and life- giving Word of God will impart hope and meaning to their gloomy world. We thank God for the leadership and support of Rev Thomas Mathew (Branch President), Mr. Varghese Jacob (Regional Co-ordinator), Mr. Sabu P. Mathew (Branch Secretary) and Branch members for arranging the meeting. Rev Yesudas Thomas, pastors and lay members graced the meeting with their presence.

Under the auspices of BSI Edayaranmula Branch, visits were made to Shanthitheeram Old age Home at Chengannur and Mar Osthathios Gloriya Bhavan (Home for Women in Distress), Nellimala, Pathanamthitta. We had distributed Bibles to the women who are mentally and emotionally challenged. The inmates were happy in receiving the Bibles and praised God for this precious gift during Christmas season as their Christmas gift.  

BSI Elappara Branch, Idukki region conducted a program at St. Stephen’s CSI Church, Glenmary. The women members who are Estate labourers and financially challenged with their children received Bibles with great joy and gratitude in their hearts to God. The Vicar, Church worker and members of the Church appreciated the efforts of the Bible Society of India for this provision. 

On request from the beneficiaries, the Auxiliary distributed Bibles to different Branches and needy individuals of other faiths. The Bibles were distributed to various persons on request according to the need from the following Churches: IPC Horeb Worship Centre, Valara, Adimali, Church of the True Gospel, Sulthan Bathery, TPM Church, Ayoor, Kollam & CSI Kanyamala Church, Idukki. Also, Bible distributions were done to the following Branches according to the need based on their request: BSI Kadampanad Branch, BSI Chengannur Branch, BSI Perunkadavila Branch & BSI Kasaragod Branch. The beneficiaries were longing to receive the Word of God for their own, as the deer pants for the streams of water. We pray and hope that the seeds sown may produce a good harvest of souls.

The Kerala auxiliary is greatly thankful to the General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Kavito G. Zhimo, and the Associate Director (CPRRM), Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi for their leadership and guidance in executing the Project. Through this project, we touched the lives of the people who are financially, emotionally, mentally challenged and needy persons, having a thirst for the Word of God. We praise & thank Almighty God for the successful accomplishment of this project by distributing God’s Word and pray that many lives will be touched and transformed by the healing and transforming power of the Word of God. Let the Word be a solace and hope in their darkest hours of journey.

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