Thoughts on the readings for April 9th Numbers 27, Proverbs 19, Philippians 3-4

Numbers 27Among the final duties of Moses was dealing with a family anomaly and the appointmentand preparation of Joshua to assume his role. This chapter addresses these two things.V.1-11 – In the orders for the division of the land, just given (Num. 26), no provision hadbeen made for females, in case of failure of male issue. The five daughters of Zelophehad,therefore, considered themselves as destitute, having neither father nor brother, and feelingthemselves entirely overlooked agreed to refer the case to Moses and the rulers, whether itwere not equitable that they should inherit their father’s portion. This led to the enactment ofan additional law to the civil code of Israel, which satisfactorily ascertained and amply secured the right of succession in cases of inheritance. This law, which is as reasonable as it is just, stands thus:1. On the demise of the father, the estate descends to the sons.2. If there be no son, the daughters succeed.3. If there be no daughter, the brothers of the deceased inherit.4. If there be no brethren, or paternal uncles, the estate goes to the grand uncles, orbrothers of his father.5. If there be no grand uncles, then the nearest of kin succeeds to the inheritance.The daughters of Zelophehad appear again in Num. 36:1-12.V.12-23 – Moses was allowed one view of the land promised to Abraham before his death.This raised the issue of who would replace him as leader of the nation. His question isanswered by Yahweh in the appointment of Joshua.