Numbers 36 - Remarriage Claims on Estate

When we create a will, frequently we leave the vast majority of our wealth to our spouse and then to our children. If the surviving spouse remarries, two threats exist to the children - 1. What if the new spouse uses all the wealth for their living needs and 2. When the surviving parent dies will the property then leave the family to the new spouse and his/her children?

The tribe of Manasseh had similar concerns related to Zelophehad's daughters. They were given permission to a portion of land that would have gone to their father if he had lived. Their tribal kinsmen feared that if they married outside the tribe that this land would eventually belong to another tribe and they would lose claim to their own territory. 

The solution provided was to establish a plan in advance (today that is done through a will and trusts). Moses instructed that any female that inherited property must marry within their tribe and keep the property intact. Zelophehad's daughters did just that and peace was maintained. 

Women tend to be the survivors in a marriage. They just tend to live longer. Since they are usually not the larger breadwinners, the estate provided by the husband becomes their source of sustenance in their older years. Many remarry because the provision left to them is insufficient; hence husband #2 is left to bear the provisional responsibilities. If his children fear the loss of their inheritance, strife can build. 

To avoid this turmoil, good communication and a written plan that clearly states the intentions should God determine that our days here have come to an end can really help maintain peace and allow beneficiaries to have reasonable expectations. While we don't like to deal with death, advanced planning can save a lot of heartache in the end. 

May God richly bless you as you seek Him and as you serve Him.