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Numbers 36:5 meaning

Moses affirms the tribe of Joseph’s concern to preserve their tribal inheritance in keeping with God’s instruction.

Then Moses commanded the sons of Israel according to the word of the LORD, saying, “The tribe of the sons of Joseph are right in their statements.” (v.5) In this verse, Moses, living during the 15th to 13th century BC, is responding to a concern raised by the family heads of the tribe of Joseph. Moses led the Israelites after their deliverance from Egypt, guiding them through the wilderness despite many challenges. Here, he affirms that the tribe of Joseph’s reasoning about keeping marriages and inheritance aligned with tribal boundaries is indeed correct. The event takes place in the region east of the Jordan River, near the plains of Moab, where the Israelites camped before entering the Promised Land. This concern about preserving land inheritance within the tribe was a vital step in maintaining a clear distinction and protection for God’s people (see also a broader context in other instructions given to the different tribes).

Then Moses commanded the sons of Israel according to the word of the LORD, saying, “The tribe of the sons of Joseph are right in their statements.” (v.5) also highlights the lasting legacy of Joseph, who lived around 1914-1805 BC. He was one of Jacob’s (Israel’s) twelve sons and held a significant historical role in preserving his family during the famine in Egypt. Now, centuries later, Moses addresses Joseph’s tribal descendants, showing the continuity of God’s covenant plan through each generation. This focus on upholding inheritance rules confirms God’s desire to remain involved in even the practical details of Israel’s daily life, a principle further seen when Jesus teaches that God values every aspect of our lives (Matthew 6:25-33).

By officiating the tribe of Joseph’s request, Moses underscores the importance of obedience to God’s Word, trusting His directives to safeguard fairness among the people. This principle resonates in the New Testament as believers are called to observe God’s commands for righteousness and good order within the community of faith (Romans 13:8-10). The fact that Moses, under the Lord’s instruction, upholds Joseph’s descendants’ concern, demonstrates that unity and right stewardship of blessings are interwoven themes throughout Scripture.

Numbers 36:5