* The Lord commanded.
To one division of the tribe of Manasseh, a portion had been
assigned eastward of Jordan; but Zelophehad was of that
division, to which an inheritance was afterwards allotted west
of Jordan; yet, expecting the promised land, the elders of the
Manassites now propose a difficulty, upon the adjudged case of
Zelophehad's daughters. (ch. 27:1-11.) If the females should
inherit, in defect of male issue, and should intermarry with
other tribes they would diminish the interest, and weaken the
influence of their own tribes, and give occasion to future
confusion, and perhaps contention. The Manassites therefore
referred the case to Moses; and he, by the authority of God,
annexed a clause, which would effectually keep the tribes and
inheritances distinct, as long as it was observed. Heiresses
were not allowed to marry out of their own tribe, though
within those bounds they might consult their own inclinations.
26:55,56 27:1-7 33:54 Jos 13:6 14:1,2 17:3
* to give.
27:1,7 Jos 17:3-6 Job 42:15
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