Numbers 36:12

In this verse, we read how *“They married those from the families of the sons of Manasseh the son of Joseph, and their inheritance remained with the tribe of the family of their father.” (v.12)* Here, “they” refers to the daughters of Zelophehad, whose specific concern was about preserving their family’s land inheritance within their father’s tribe. Manasseh was one of the two sons of Joseph. Joseph, who served as a high-ranking official in ancient Egypt, lived sometime around the early 19th century BC, and he was one of the twelve sons of Jacob. By entering into marriages within their own tribe, these women upheld the Israelite custom that regulated land distribution within the tribes to avoid future disputes and to preserve family legacies.

The land of Manasseh in Israel extended on both the eastern and western sides of the Jordan River. This geographical region is significant, as it included fertile agricultural land and strategic resources. By marrying within this tribe, the daughters of Zelophehad ensured that property would not be transferred out to other tribes, thus keeping the landholding intact. This action also exemplifies obedience to the commandment given to them, aligning with the greater biblical theme of responsible stewardship.

The message within *“their inheritance remained with the tribe of the family of their father” (v.12)* can also foreshadow how in the New Testament believers are reminded that their spiritual inheritance is secure in Christ (Romans 8:17 NASB-95). In a similar way that property was to remain within the family, our eternal inheritance stays under the guardianship of God. This ancient regulation points to the importance of faithfulness and stewardship, values that echo forward into the new covenant, where all in Christ are co-heirs with Him.

This verse emphasizes divine provision and responsible inheritance.