Commentary on Joshua 17:4

Verse: "And they came near before Eleazar the priest, and before Joshua the son of Nun, and before the princes, saying, The Lord commanded Moses to give us an inheritance among our brethren. Therefore according to the commandment of the Lord, he gave them an inheritance among the brethren of their father."

Introduction

This passage reflects a pivotal moment in the history of Israel, marking the dynamic interaction between the leadership of Joshua, Eleazar, and the daughters of Zelophehad. Their request for an inheritance epitomizes faith and advocacy within the framework of divine promise.

Contextual Background

The Book of Joshua narrates the conquest and distribution of land among the tribes of Israel, post their Exodus from Egypt. Chapter 17 reveals specific challenges regarding tribal inheritances, particularly addressing the concerns of gender and familial rights within a patriarchal society, thus underscoring the theological importance of inheritance in the Covenant community.

The Request for Inheritance

The daughters of Zelophehad, as noted in Numbers 27:1-11, boldly approached the leaders of Israel. They were mindful of God’s command conveyed through Moses concerning inheritance rights. This inquiry highlights:

• Courage to Approach Leadership: Their initiative in seeking justice reflects a robust faith. Even in a male-dominated environment, they were not deterred by societal norms.
• Understanding of Divine Promises: They were acutely aware of the promises given to their forefathers, signaling a deep understanding of Torah and its implications.
• Faith in God's Provision: Their plea illustrates a profound trust in God's provision and the legitimacy of their rights as daughters.

The Role of Eleazar and Joshua

Eleazar the priest and Joshua serve as representatives of God’s authority and governance among the Israelites. Their response to Zelophehad’s daughters is emblematic of godly leadership:

• Spiritual Authority: Eleazar’s position showcases the combination of priestly duties with administrative responsibilities, highlighting the integration of faith and governance.
• Upholding God’s Commands: Joshua exemplifies obedience to the divine mandate, making decisions grounded in God’s will rather than human tradition.

The Granting of Inheritance

According to the narrative, the inheritance was given to the daughters precisely as the Lord commanded, denoting:

• Theological Implications: This act anticipates the eventual inclusion of all believers in God’s promises, transcending cultural and gender barriers.
• Affirmation of Justice: The act of granting them their rightful inheritance reflects God's justice, illustrating that all are valued in His sight.
• Precedent for the Future: This decision set a significant precedent for future generations regarding women's rights and inheritance within the Israelite community.

Lessons for Today

From Joshua 17:4, we can distill profound lessons that resonate for modern pastors, theologians, and Christians:

• Courage in Advocacy: Believers are encouraged to approach leadership with faith-filled requests, advocating for justice and truth.
• Embracing Diversity: The narrative illustrates the significance of embracing inclusivity within the body of Christ, affirming that all individuals have a role and inheritance in God’s kingdom.
• Divine Assurance: This passage reassures that God’s promises extend beyond cultural barriers, affirming His faithfulness in fulfilling His word.

Conclusion

Joshua 17:4 serves as a robust reminder of God’s faithfulness to His people. It challenges leaders to be responsive to the needs of their community while reinforcing the belief that every believer is part of God's covenant promise. The boldness of the daughters of Zelophehad stands as a testament to the unwavering faith and the pursuit of justice, providing both a challenge and encouragement to the Church today.