DAUGHTERS OF ZELOPHEHAD

In this week’s Torah portion, Pincas, we meet the five daughters of Zelophehad - Mahlah, Noa, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah.  Zelophehad (whose name means dark shadow) was an Israelite wood-cutter who dies without a male heir.  According to the laws of inheritance, Zelophehad’s land would not be passed down to his daughters.  The five daughters approach Moses and state their case: they should be able to inherit the land and, thus, keep their father’s name alive into the next generation. The case is settled in favor of the women – they inherit the land but are restricted to marry within their own tribe so as not to create a land imbalance among the tribes. 

Bear in mind - this exchange happens in the desert before the Israelites enter the land of Canaan.  The discussion of land inheritance was all hypothetical at this point; the Israelites had to first conquer the land.  

Volumes of commentaries have been written about the daughters of Zelophehad and their courageous feat of pleading their case in court.  One Hasidic commentary especially resonated with me.  It speaks to the unique qualities that the women will bring to the Israelite leadership: “Not all conquests are achieved by overpowering one’s adversary. At times, receptiveness and empathy are equally, if not more, effective in overcoming the hostility of the “enemy” and transforming its very nature.” While I certainly don’t believe that empathy is specifically a female quality, I do believe strongly in the power of compromise in conflict.  And, I like the concept that the daughters of Zelophehad brought a unique and necessary voice to the Israelite leadership. This commentary, although from a very traditional source, speaks to the need for a variety of voices and experiences in leadership.

The five sisters worked together as a team, presented themselves as a united front, did so without anger or threats and accepted the leadership’s decision after stating their case.  Unfortunately, the Torah includes no mention of the women beyond the episodes related to the land inheritance.  It would be fascinating to see how the women integrated themselves into the community as inheritors and leaders.  And, whether their “receptiveness and empathy” wore off on those around them.  I'd like to think it did.  What about you? 

Rabbi Cohen