The story of the daughters of zelophehad – सलोफाद की बेटियों की कहानी
The story of the Daughters of Zelophehad is a significant narrative in the Bible, found in the Book of Numbers (Numbers 27:1-11). It highlights themes of justice, inheritance rights, and the importance of advocating for fairness within a legal and religious context.
Zelophehad, a man from the tribe of Manasseh, one of the sons of Joseph, died without having any sons. In ancient Israel, inheritance laws were primarily male-centered, meaning that only sons would inherit their father’s property. If a man had no sons, his inheritance would typically pass to his nearest male relative. This posed a problem for Zelophehad’s daughters, as they were at risk of losing their father’s inheritance and legacy.
Zelophehad had five daughters: Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. These courageous women came forward to present their case to Moses, the priest Eleazar, and the entire assembly of Israel at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. They argued that it would be unjust for their father’s name to be lost from his clan simply because he had no sons. They asked that they be given the inheritance that would have gone to their father, so that his name and legacy would be preserved.
Moses brought their case before God, seeking divine guidance on the matter. God responded in favor of the daughters, affirming that their request was just. God instructed Moses to grant them their father’s inheritance and established a new law for future generations. From that point on, if a man died without leaving a son, his inheritance would be passed on to his daughters. If he had no daughters, the inheritance would go to his brothers, then to his father’s brothers, and if none of these relatives existed, it would go to the nearest kinsman.
The daughters’ courage to speak up and advocate for their rights led to a significant change in Israelite inheritance laws, ensuring fairness and justice. The narrative highlights the active role that women could play in shaping the laws and customs of their community, even in a patriarchal society. God’s response underscores the principle of justice and fairness in His laws, showing that God listens to the pleas of those who seek righteousness.
The story of the Daughters of Zelophehad remains a powerful example of how standing up for justice can bring about change, even in the face of established norms and traditions.
The story of the daughters of zelophehad – सलोफाद की बेटियों की कहानी
