John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 5. And Moses commanded the children of Israel , etc.] Even all the tribes of Israel, whom the following law concerned, as well as the tribe of Manasseh: according to the word of the Lord ; whom no doubt he consulted on this occasion, as he did when the daughters of Zelophehad applied unto him about the inheritance of their father: saying, the tribe of the sons of Joseph hath said well ; in showing such a concern for the welfare of their tribe; the consideration of which would be of service to them all, and therefore was worthy of notice. Aben Ezra observes, that the heads of the fathers spoke for the sake of every tribe, what was for the good of them all, and therefore was well spoken.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 5-12 - Those who consult the oracles of God, concerning the making of their heavenly inheritance sure, shall not only be directed what to do, but their inquiries shall be graciously accepted. God would not have on tribe enriched at the expense of another. Each tribe was to keep to it own inheritance. The daughters of Zelophehad submitted to thi appointment. How could they fail to marry well, when God himsel directed them? Let the people of God learn how suitable and proper i is, like the daughters of Israel, to be united only to their ow people. Ought not every true believer Israel, to be united only to their own people. Ought not every true believer in Jesus, to be very attentive in the near and tender relations of life, to be united onl to such as are united to the Lord? All our intentions and inclination ought to be subjected to the will of God, when that is made known to us, and especially in contracting marriage. Although the word of God allows affection and preference in this important relation, it does no sanction that foolish, ungovernable, and idolatrous passion, whic cares not what may be the end; but in defiance of authority, determine upon self-gratification. All such conduct, however disguised, i against common sense, the interests of society, the happiness of the marriage relation, and, what is still more evil, against the religio of Christ.
Original Hebrew ויצו6680 משׁה4872 את853 בני1121 ישׂראל3478 על5921 פי6310 יהוה3068 לאמר559 כן3651 מטה4294 בני1121 יוסף3130 דברים׃1696
