Numbers 27: Succession

Numbers 27 tells two different stories, yet both follow the theme of succession. 

Verses 1-11 present the dilemma of Zelophehad's daughters.  Zelophehad had five daughters, but no sons.  He died in the wilderness (not as part of Korah's rebellion, but for his own sin of refusing to enter the land of Canaan).  His daughters raise a question of fairness with Moses and Eleazar: Shouldn't they receive an inheritance along with the rest of Israel rather than let their father's name die out?  Moses takes their case before the Lord, and He agrees with them.  God then sets up the laws of inheritance concerning the succession of land and property when a man dies without sons.

Verses 12-23 is more personal.  God delivers the news to Moses that his day of departure is drawing near.  Rather than pleading for more time or a second chance for himself, Moses is concerned about fate of the people of Israel.  Moses issues a statement that Jesus will one day echo: he wants the Lord to appoint a leader to succeed him "...so that the congregation of the Lord may not be like sheep without a shepherd" (vs. 17).  From his years of experience trying to lead the Hebrews, Moses knows that leadership is key.  It remains key today.  God provides an answer to Moses' concern about succession by pointing him to Joshua.  Moses will transfer some of his authority to Joshua so that he may lead the people after Moses' death.