Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the verse 'And Moshe brought their cause before the Lord' mean?
A: This verse refers to the daughters of Tzelofchad (Machlah, Noa, Choglah, Milkah, and Tirtzah) who approached Moshe with a legal question about inheriting their father's portion in the Land of Israel since he had no sons. Moshe, unsure of the ruling, brought their case before Hashem for clarification (Rashi on Numbers 27:5).
Q: Why is this verse important in the Torah?
A: This verse is important because it teaches us that even Moshe Rabbeinu, the greatest prophet, did not rely solely on his own understanding when faced with a new legal question. Instead, he sought divine guidance, setting an example for future Jewish courts to consult Torah law carefully (Rambam, Hilchos Sanhedrin 1:1).
Q: What can we learn from Moshe bringing the daughters' case before Hashem?
A: We learn that when faced with difficult questions—especially regarding Torah law—we must seek proper guidance from qualified Torah scholars rather than relying on our own judgment. Additionally, it shows the importance of justice and fairness, as Moshe made sure these women's legitimate claim was properly addressed (Talmud, Bava Basra 119b).
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: This verse teaches us that when we encounter new situations not explicitly covered by halacha (Jewish law), we must turn to knowledgeable rabbinic authorities—just as Moshe turned to Hashem. It also highlights the Torah's emphasis on justice, showing that even seemingly 'small' cases deserve proper attention (Midrash Tanchuma, Pinchas 8).
Context of the Verse
The verse (Numbers 27:5) appears in the narrative of the daughters of Tzelofchad, who approached Moshe with a legal question regarding inheritance since their father had died without sons. They argued that they should inherit their father's portion in Eretz Yisrael. Moshe, unsure of the ruling, brought their case before Hashem.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Moshe did not merely present the question to Hashem but actively advocated for the daughters of Tzelofchad. He emphasizes that Moshe "brought their cause" (וַיַּקְרֵב מֹשֶׁה אֶת־מִשְׁפָּטָן)—meaning he sought a favorable judgment for them. This teaches that a judge should not remain passive but should strive to find merit in the claims of those seeking justice.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Hilchos Sanhedrin 20:8) derives from this verse that when a judge encounters a case beyond his understanding, he must consult a higher authority—in this case, Hashem Himself. This underscores the principle that even the greatest leaders must humbly seek divine guidance in complex matters of Torah law.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Gemara (Bava Basra 119b) derives from this episode that daughters inherit when there are no sons, establishing a key principle in Jewish inheritance law. The verse thus serves as the foundation for numerous halachic rulings regarding familial inheritance in the absence of male heirs.