Joshua 20:9

These are the cities appointed for all the Israelites and foreigners among them, so that anyone who kills a person unintentionally may flee there and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood prior to standing trial before the assembly.

Study Bible

These were the cities designated
The phrase "These were the cities designated" refers to the specific cities of refuge established by God through Moses and Joshua. The Hebrew root for "designated" is "קָדַשׁ" (qadash), meaning to set apart or consecrate. These cities were not ordinary; they were sanctified spaces, symbolizing God's provision and justice. Historically, these cities were strategically located throughout Israel to be accessible to all, reflecting God's fairness and mercy.

for all the Israelites
The inclusion of "for all the Israelites" emphasizes the communal aspect of God's law. It was not just for a select few but for the entire nation. This universality underscores the unity and equality before God's law, a principle that resonates throughout Scripture, highlighting that God's justice and mercy are available to all His people.

and for any foreigner residing among them
The phrase "and for any foreigner residing among them" is significant in demonstrating God's inclusive nature. The Hebrew term for "foreigner" is "גֵּר" (ger), which refers to a sojourner or temporary resident. This provision shows that God's justice transcends ethnic and national boundaries, offering protection and fairness to all who seek refuge under His laws, prefiguring the New Testament's message of salvation for all nations.

so that anyone who killed a person unintentionally
The phrase "so that anyone who killed a person unintentionally" addresses the concept of manslaughter, distinguishing it from premeditated murder. The Hebrew word for "unintentionally" is "בִּשְׁגָגָה" (bishgagah), meaning without intent or by mistake. This distinction is crucial in understanding God's justice system, which considers the heart and intent behind actions, offering grace and protection to those who err without malice.

could flee there
The provision "could flee there" indicates the urgency and necessity of immediate action for the manslayer. The cities of refuge were places of safety, symbolizing God's protection and the opportunity for redemption. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God as a refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1).

and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood
The "avenger of blood" refers to the family member responsible for avenging the death of a relative, a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The Hebrew term is "גֹּאֵל הַדָּם" (go'el ha-dam). God's provision of cities of refuge mitigates this practice, emphasizing His desire for justice tempered with mercy, preventing blood feuds and promoting societal peace.

until he stood trial before the assembly
The phrase "until he stood trial before the assembly" highlights the importance of due process and communal judgment. The assembly, or "עֵדָה" (edah), served as a judicial body to ensure fair trial and justice. This reflects God's orderly and just nature, ensuring that decisions are made collectively and wisely, prefiguring the New Testament church's role in communal discernment and accountability.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cities of Refuge
These were specific cities designated by God through Moses and Joshua as safe havens for those who committed manslaughter unintentionally. They provided protection from the "avenger of blood" until a fair trial could be conducted.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the law and the land of Canaan. The cities of refuge were part of the legal system established for them.

3. Foreigners
Non-Israelites residing among the Israelites. The inclusion of foreigners in the provision of refuge highlights God's justice and mercy extended to all people.

4. Avenger of Blood
A family member of the deceased who had the cultural and legal right to avenge the death. The cities of refuge provided a means to prevent blood feuds and ensure justice.

5. Assembly
The governing body or community leaders who would conduct the trial to determine the guilt or innocence of the person seeking refuge.

Teaching Points

God's Justice and Mercy
The cities of refuge illustrate God's balance of justice and mercy, providing protection while ensuring accountability.

Inclusivity in God's Law
The inclusion of foreigners in the provision of refuge demonstrates God's care for all people, not just the Israelites.

The Importance of Due Process
The requirement for a trial before the assembly underscores the importance of due process and fair judgment in God's legal system.

Spiritual Refuge in Christ
Just as the cities of refuge provided safety, Christ is our spiritual refuge, offering protection and salvation from sin.

Community Responsibility
The role of the assembly in determining the outcome highlights the responsibility of the community in upholding justice and mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the cities of refuge reflect God's character in terms of justice and mercy?

2. In what ways does the provision for foreigners in the cities of refuge challenge us to think about inclusivity in our communities today?

3. How can the concept of the avenger of blood be understood in the context of modern justice systems?

4. What parallels can we draw between the cities of refuge and the refuge we find in Christ?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, ensure that we are upholding justice and mercy in our interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter provides detailed instructions about the cities of refuge, including their purpose and the laws governing them.

Deuteronomy 19
Offers further explanation of the cities of refuge and the importance of justice and due process.

Hebrews 6
Discusses the concept of refuge in a spiritual sense, where believers find refuge in the hope set before them in Christ.