Numbers 27:8 Meaning and Explanation
“And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a man die, and have no son, then ye shall cause his inheritance to pass unto his daughter.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God establishes a new law: when a man dies without a son, his daughter inherits.
The Context of Numbers 27:8
God establishes the law of inheritance when there is no son.
What Does Numbers 27:8 Mean?
What began as a petition about one family becomes a law for all Israel. This verse codifies the daughters' victory and extends it forward in time. Any man without a son now has assurance that his inheritance will not be lost to his family—his daughter can carry it forward. The Law becomes more inclusive without abandoning the patrilineal principle.
The logic is consistent with Israel's existing inheritance system: land stays within families. But now the definition of 'heir' expands. A daughter, in the absence of a son, becomes a valid recipient of the family's portion, preserving both the land's integrity and the family's continuity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 27:8
What does Numbers 27:8 mean?
God establishes a new law: when a man dies without a son, his daughter inherits.
What is the context of Numbers 27:8?
God establishes the law of inheritance when there is no son.