Numbers·Chapter 36

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to think about your relationships and the choices you make. Are there decisions you can make that honor both your desires and your family or community ties? Maybe it’s about who you spend time with or how you support those close to you. Consider reaching out to someone in your family or community and discussing your dreams or choices with them, blending your individuality with their wisdom. This balance can enrich your life and strengthen your bonds.

Chapter Context

In this chapter of Numbers, there’s a real tension brewing. The daughters of Zelophehad had earlier bravely approached Moses to claim their inheritance after their father died without sons. This was groundbreaking! Now, as the Israelites are preparing to settle in the Promised Land, the question of how to marry and maintain their tribal identities arises. This verse comes at a pivotal moment where the community is figuring out how to live in harmony with both individual desires and collective responsibility. It’s a shift from mere survival to thriving as a people, making this verse a crucial step in that journey.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• this - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• what - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• lord - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• commands - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• daughters - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• zelophehad - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• them - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• best - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• shall - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• the - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

How do you find a balance between your personal choices and your connections to family or community? Think about a decision you’re facing right now – how can you honor both your desires and your roots?

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 7:3 - This verse emphasizes marrying within the community, highlighting the importance of shared values.
• Numbers 27:1-11 - This is the story of the daughters of Zelophehad claiming their inheritance, showing their boldness and the need for laws that protect everyone.
• Ruth 1:16 - Ruth chose to stay with Naomi, showing deep loyalty to family, similar to the themes in this verse about community ties.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Numbers 36:6. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Verses

Numbers 36:6, Numbers 36:7, Numbers 36:10, Numbers 36:12, Numbers 36:13

Historical Context

This chapter is set during the Israelites' final preparations to enter the Promised Land after 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. It follows the previous chapters that detail the allotment of land to the tribes of Israel. The concerns raised by the Gilead leaders highlight the importance of maintaining the integrity of tribal inheritances, a crucial aspect of Israel's social and religious identity. This regulation reflects the larger biblical theme of God's faithfulness in ensuring that His promises to the patriarchs regarding land and descendants are honored, even amid human complexities and concerns.