A Note from Barbara

I wish I had discovered the story of the daughters of Zelophehad many years ago, especially when I taught elementary school chapel. I don’t know how I missed the bravery of these orphaned girls during my read-through-the-Bible sessions. Perhaps it’s because they are first mentioned in lists of names—not the most exciting reading material. Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah and Tirzah first appear in Numbers 26:33 and Numbers 27:1-11. You will find the restrictions put on their marriages in Numbers 36. They are also found in Joshua 17:3-6. They are not one hit wonders in Scripture.

I admit, I was leery of writing a story with five characters even though Mahlah is center stage in this book. I hope each daughter touched your heart with their courage to change history. Their petition to inherit their father’s land was a bold ask of a male-dominated assembly. Since they were not married, they could have been younger than the ages of my characters. We don’t know how Zelophehad or his wife died. I thought the snakes in Numbers 21 would be an exciting and moving exit for Zelophehad.

God takes care of the orphan and the widow (Exodus 22:22-23). He watched over Zelophehad’s daughters and blessed them, and other women, with the gift of land. I am so excited to bring the story of these wonderful girls to light.

Thank you for reading my story which is really God’s story. The daughters of Zelophehad continue with Heavely Lights: Noah’s Journey and Claiming Canaan: Milcah’s Journey.

May you go forth with God.