Book of Numbers - Chapter 36 - Verse 12

The verse highlights the importance of maintaining family ties and preserving inheritance within the tribes of Israel. In ancient Israelite society, marriage was not only a union of individuals but also a joining of families and tribes. By marrying into the families of the sons of Manasseh, the individuals in question ensured that their inheritance remained within the tribe of their father. This emphasis on lineage and inheritance was crucial in preserving the integrity and identity of the twelve tribes of Israel. It also served as a means of maintaining social order and cohesion within the community.

In this verse, we see the significance of marital relationships in the Bible and how they impact inheritance. The mention of being "married into the families of the sons of Manasseh" highlights the importance of familial ties and lineage in the distribution of inheritance. This verse underscores the idea that inheritance was closely connected to the tribe and family of one's father. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the idea of continuity and preservation of heritage through marriage. By marrying within the tribe and family of their father, the daughters ensured that their inheritance would remain within the tribal boundaries set by God. This verse serves as a reminder of the biblical value placed on lineage, fidelity, and the sanctity of marriage.