◄ Joshua 20 ►
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Six Cities of Refuge (Numbers 35:9–34; Deuteronomy 4:41–43; Deuteronomy 19:1–14) 1Then the LORD said to Joshua, 2“Tell the Israelites to designate the cities of refuge, as I instructed you through Moses, 3so that anyone who kills another unintentionally or accidentally may flee there. These will be your refuge from the avenger of blood. 4When someone flees to one of these cities, stands at the entrance of the city gate, and states his case before its elders, they are to bring him into the city and give him a place to live among them. 5Now if the avenger of blood pursues him, they must not surrender the manslayer into his hand, because that man killed his neighbor accidentally without prior malice. 6He is to stay in that city until he stands trial before the assembly and until the death of the high priest serving at that time. Then the manslayer may return to his own home in the city from which he fled.” 7So they set apart Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country of Naphtali, Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim, and Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the hill country of Judah. 8And beyond the Jordan, east of Jericho, they designated Bezer on the wilderness plateau from the tribe of Reuben, Ramoth in Gilead from the tribe of Gad, and Golan in Bashan from the tribe of Manasseh. 9These 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. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Joshua 20 Summary Six Cities of Refuge Verses 1–2 – The LORD’s Command to Joshua Yahweh speaks directly to Joshua, telling him to set apart the promised “cities of refuge” first spoken of through Moses. The command shows that the conquest may be winding down, but covenant order is still front-and-center. Verses 3–6 – Purpose and Procedure for Cities of Refuge The cities are to shelter anyone who “kills someone unintentionally or accidentally.” The manslayer must stop at the gate, state the case to the elders, and be welcomed into the city under Levitical oversight. If a grieving relative—the “avenger of blood”—comes after him, the elders must not surrender the fugitive because the death lacked malice. The refugee stays until he faces the wider assembly and until the death of the reigning high priest, after which he may go home. Verses 7–9 – The Six Cities Appointed Israel sets apart three cities west of the Jordan—Kedesh (Naphtali), Shechem (Ephraim), and Hebron (Judah)—and three east of the Jordan—Bezer (Reuben), Ramoth-gilead (Gad), and Golan (Manasseh). “These were the appointed cities for all the Israelites and for the foreigners residing among them” (v. 9). In this enlightening chapter, the LORD instructs Joshua to establish cities of refuge, providing a safe haven for those who unintentionally commit manslaughter, further underscoring God's principles of justice and mercy. Historical Setting Joshua 20 falls inside the land-distribution section of the book (ch. 13–21). The conquest campaigns are largely complete, so attention shifts to structuring life in the land. By placing this chapter after most tribal allotments yet before final covenant renewals, Joshua highlights that justice and mercy are as critical to national stability as military victory. Legal Background: The Avenger of Blood • Genesis 9:6 sets a foundational principle: “Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed.” • Numbers 35 and Deuteronomy 19 spell out how a kinsman could avenge a wrongful death while still allowing protection for accidental killers. • Exodus 21:12-14 already drew a line between murder and manslaughter; Joshua 20 applies that line inside Israel’s new geography. Purpose of the Cities 1. Preserve life until a fair trial (Numbers 35:12). 2. Prevent blood feuds that could spiral into clan warfare. 3. Reflect God’s character—He is both just and merciful (Psalm 85:10). 4. Teach that innocent blood must not be shed in the land (Deuteronomy 19:10). Step-by-Step Procedure • Flight: The killer runs to the nearest refuge city (average distance ≈ 32 miles). • Gate Hearing: Elders listen for evidence of intent. • Admission: If the death lacked premeditation, the elders provide housing and safety. • Trial: A full assembly later weighs testimony (Numbers 35:24). • Duration: Residence lasts “until the death of the high priest” (v. 6), after which the manslayer returns free of threat. Distribution of the Six Cities West Bank • Kedesh in Galilee—northernmost, hill country of Naphtali. • Shechem—central highlands, ancient political hub. • Hebron (Kiriath-arba)—southern highlands, ancestral burial site of Abraham. East Bank • Bezer—on the plateau of Moab, guarding eastern approaches. • Ramoth-gilead—strategic crossroads in Gilead, later battleground of Ahab. • Golan—Bashan’s fertile basalt uplands, controlling key routes to Damascus. The even spread made any city reachable within a day’s run, underlining God’s accessibility. Archaeological Notes • Kedesh (Tell el-Qedah) shows Late Bronze and Iron Age fortifications; a large paved gate plaza matches the chapter’s “city gate” scene. • Shechem (Tell Balata) has a massive gate complex and cultic standing stones, confirming its civic-judicial function (cf. Joshua 24). • Hebron (Tel Rumeida) preserves Cyclopean walls and an Iron Age water system. • Bezer’s exact site remains debated—candidates include Umm el-‘Amad and Besheir—but all lie on the eastern plateau’s trade arteries. • Ramoth-gilead may be Tell er-Rumeith; excavations reveal defensive walls suitable for asylum. • Golan likely sits at Sahm el-Jolan; surveys note continuous occupation into the Roman era. Levitical Administration Each refuge city was also a Levitical city (Joshua 21). Levites, unaligned with a single tribe and trained in Torah, made ideal impartial judges (Deuteronomy 33:10). Their presence ensured spiritual as well as civic oversight. High Priest and Release Clause The fugitive’s freedom coincided with the death of the sitting high priest (v. 6). This created a natural statute of limitations that balanced the avenger’s grief with a fresh national start. Hebrews 9:11-14 later draws on the idea: one monumental priestly death releases sinners permanently. Inclusivity: Israelite and Foreigner Verse 9 states protection covered “foreigners residing among them,” echoing Exodus 12:49—“The same law shall apply to the native and the foreigner.” God’s justice never stops at ethnic borders, a preview of the gospel’s reach (Ephesians 2:11-13). Foreshadowing Christ, Our Refuge Hebrews 6:18 says, “We who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be strongly encouraged.” Like the cities, Jesus offers immediate, accessible safety to the guilty who seek Him. As the manslayer stayed until the high priest died, believers rest secure because the ultimate High Priest has died once for all, ending the threat of condemnation (Romans 8:1). Connections to Other Scripture • Deuteronomy 4:41-43 describes Moses assigning three Transjordan cities, showing God’s plan in stages. • Psalm 46:1—“God is our refuge and strength.” • Isaiah 32:2 envisions a king as “a shelter from the storm,” echoing refuge imagery. • Revelation 20:12 points to a final, impartial judgment where motives matter, just as the elders discern intent in Joshua 20. Ancient Near Eastern Parallels Hittite and Mesopotamian laws also distinguished intentional and accidental killing, but Israel’s system stood out: accessibility (well-marked roads, rabbinic tradition says signposts read “Refuge, Refuge”), equal treatment of aliens, and the unique release upon a priestly death. Practical Implications Today • God values human life; accidental harm still calls for accountability. • Justice systems should balance due process with compassion. • Believers can act as “signposts” that guide hurting people toward the ultimate Refuge. • A community’s spiritual leadership carries responsibility for societal fairness. Timeless Themes Mercy without impunity, justice without vengeance, and a holy God providing safe harbor—Joshua 20 weaves these strands into Israel’s daily geography, and they continue to frame the Christian account of rescue in Christ. Connections to Additional Scriptures Numbers 35:9-15 Provides the initial instructions for the cities of refuge, emphasizing their importance in the Mosaic Law. Hebrews 6:18 Speaks of the hope set before us, which acts as a refuge, drawing a parallel to the cities of refuge as a place of safety. Psalm 46:1 Declares God as our refuge and strength, a reminder of His constant protection and care. Teaching Points Divine Command Joshua 20:1-2 states, Then the LORD said to Joshua, 'Tell the Israelites to designate the cities of refuge, as I instructed you through Moses.' This command underscores the continuity of God's law and His concern for justice and mercy. Purpose of the Cities The cities of refuge were established to protect those who killed someone unintentionally, as seen in Joshua 20:3, so that anyone who kills a person accidentally or unintentionally may flee there and find protection from the avenger of blood. Accessibility and Fairness Joshua 20:9 emphasizes that these cities were accessible to all, These were the cities designated for all the Israelites and for any foreigner residing among them. This provision reflects God's impartial justice and care for both Israelites and foreigners. Role of the Elders In Joshua 20:4, the elders of the city were to hear the case of the fugitive, ensuring a fair trial and protection until the case was resolved, highlighting the importance of community and leadership in administering justice. Symbol of Christ The cities of refuge serve as a foreshadowing of Christ, our ultimate refuge, who provides safety and salvation for all who seek Him. Practical Applications Seek Justice and Mercy As believers, we are called to uphold justice while extending mercy, reflecting God's character in our interactions with others. Provide Refuge Consider how you can be a source of refuge and support for those in need, offering a listening ear and a compassionate heart. Pursue Reconciliation Just as the cities of refuge provided a means for reconciliation, we should actively seek to reconcile with others, promoting peace and understanding. Embrace God's Protection In times of trouble, remember that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of need (Psalm 46:1). People 1. The LORD (YHWH) The chapter begins with the LORD speaking to Joshua, instructing him to designate cities of refuge as previously commanded through Moses. The Hebrew name used here is יְהוָה (YHWH), which is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible. 2. Joshua Joshua is the leader of the Israelites at this time, responsible for carrying out the LORD's commands. He is the central human figure in the book of Joshua, leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. 3. Moses Although not directly present in the narrative, Moses is referenced as the one through whom the LORD initially commanded the establishment of cities of refuge. Moses is a key figure in Israelite history, having led the Israelites out of Egypt and received the Law from God. 4. The Avenger of Blood This term refers to a person, typically a family member, who seeks to avenge the death of a relative. The Hebrew term is גֹּאֵל הַדָּם (go'el ha-dam), which means "redeemer of blood." 5. The Manslayer This refers to a person who has killed someone unintentionally and seeks refuge in one of the designated cities. The Hebrew term used is רֹצֵחַ (rotzeach), which can mean "killer" or "manslayer." Places 1. Kedesh Located in Galilee in the hill country of Naphtali. The name "Kedesh" comes from the Hebrew root "קדש" (qadash), meaning "holy" or "sanctified." It served as a city of refuge in the northern part of Israel. 2. Shechem Situated in the hill country of Ephraim. The name "Shechem" is derived from the Hebrew "שכם" (shekhem), meaning "shoulder" or "ridge." It was centrally located, making it accessible for those in the central region of Israel. 3. Hebron (also known as Kiriath-arba) Found in the hill country of Judah. "Hebron" comes from the Hebrew "חברון" (Chevron), meaning "association" or "alliance." It was a city of refuge in the southern part of Israel. 4. Bezer Located in the wilderness on the plateau for the tribe of Reuben. The name "Bezer" is from the Hebrew "בצר" (betser), meaning "fortress" or "stronghold." It served as a refuge on the eastern side of the Jordan River. 5. Ramoth in Gilead Situated in the territory of Gad. "Ramoth" comes from the Hebrew "רמות" (ramot), meaning "heights" or "high places." It was another city of refuge east of the Jordan River. 6. Golan in Bashan Located in the territory of Manasseh. The name "Golan" is derived from the Hebrew "גולן" (Golan), which may mean "circle" or "enclosure." It was the northernmost city of refuge east of the Jordan River. Events 1. Command to Establish Cities of Refuge The LORD instructs Joshua to tell the Israelites to designate cities of refuge as previously commanded through Moses. These cities are meant to provide asylum for anyone who kills a person unintentionally (Joshua 20:1-2). 2. Purpose of the Cities The cities of refuge are established so that anyone who kills a person accidentally can flee there to escape the avenger of blood, ensuring they are not killed before standing trial (Joshua 20:3). 3. Procedure for Seeking Refuge The person who flees to a city of refuge must stand at the entrance of the city gate and explain their case to the elders of that city. The elders are then to admit the fugitive into the city and provide a place to live among them (Joshua 20:4). 4. Protection from the Avenger If the avenger of blood pursues the fugitive, the city must not surrender the person, because the killing was accidental and without prior malice (Joshua 20:5). 5. Duration of Stay The fugitive must remain in the city of refuge until they have stood trial before the assembly and until the death of the high priest serving at that time. Afterward, they may return to their own home in the city from which they fled (Joshua 20:6). 6. Designation of Specific Cities Joshua designates the cities of refuge: Kedesh in Galilee, Shechem in Ephraim, and Kiriath-arba (Hebron) in Judah (Joshua 20:7). 7. Additional Cities for the Tribes East of the Jordan For the tribes east of the Jordan, Bezer in Reuben, Ramoth in Gilead for Gad, and Golan in Bashan for Manasseh are designated as cities of refuge (Joshua 20:8). 8. Accessibility for All Israelites and Foreigners These cities are available to all Israelites and any foreigners residing among them, ensuring that anyone who kills another unintentionally can find refuge and not be killed by the avenger of blood before standing trial (Joshua 20:9). Lessons from Joshua 20 1. The Importance of Refuge In Joshua 20, God commands the establishment of cities of refuge, places where those who have accidentally caused harm can find safety. This reminds us of the refuge we find in Christ. As Psalm 46:1 says, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble." Just as these cities provided protection, Jesus offers us a safe haven from the consequences of sin. 2. Justice and Mercy in Balance The cities of refuge were not just places of safety but also of justice. They ensured that the accused received a fair trial. This balance between justice and mercy reflects God's character. As Micah 6:8 instructs, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" 3. Accessibility for All God instructed that the cities of refuge be easily accessible, ensuring that anyone in need could reach them quickly. This accessibility mirrors the open invitation of the Gospel. Romans 10:13 assures us, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." The path to salvation is open to all who seek it. 4. The Role of the High Priest The release of those in the cities of refuge was tied to the death of the high priest. This foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, whose death and resurrection set us free from sin. Hebrews 4:14 declares, "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess." 5. Community Responsibility The establishment of these cities was a communal effort, highlighting the importance of community in God's plan. We are called to support and uplift one another. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another." 6. The Value of Human Life The cities of refuge underscore the sanctity of human life, emphasizing that even accidental harm requires accountability. This principle aligns with the biblical view that every life is precious. Genesis 1:27 reminds us, "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." 7. God's Provision and Protection God's command to establish these cities shows His provision and protection for His people. He cares deeply for our well-being and safety. As Philippians 4:19 promises, "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." 8. The Call to Repentance While the cities offered refuge, they also required the accused to remain until their case was resolved, symbolizing the need for repentance and transformation. Acts 3:19 calls us to, "Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away." 9. The Power of God's Command The establishment of these cities was a direct command from God, demonstrating the power and authority of His word. Isaiah 55:11 assures us, "So My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it." 10. A Foreshadowing of Christ's Salvation Ultimately, the cities of refuge point us to the salvation offered through Jesus Christ. Just as these cities provided a way to escape judgment, Jesus offers us eternal life. John 3:16 beautifully encapsulates this truth: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." Topics 1. Establishment of Cities of Refuge Joshua 20 begins with the LORD instructing Joshua to establish cities of refuge as He had commanded through Moses. These cities were meant to provide a safe haven for those who had killed someone unintentionally. The Hebrew term for "refuge" is "מִקְלָט" (miqlat), which signifies a place of asylum or protection. 2. Purpose of the Cities of Refuge The purpose of these cities was to protect the manslayer from the avenger of blood until a fair trial could be conducted. This reflects the biblical principle of justice and mercy, ensuring that those who committed accidental manslaughter were not unjustly punished. 3. Criteria for Seeking Refuge The text specifies that the cities were for those who killed "unintentionally and without malice aforethought" (Joshua 20:3). The Hebrew phrase "בִּבְלִי דַעַת" (bivli da'at) translates to "without knowledge," emphasizing the lack of premeditation. 4. Procedure for the Manslayer Upon reaching a city of refuge, the manslayer was to stand at the entrance of the city gate and state his case before the elders. This process underscores the importance of community leadership and due process in ancient Israelite society. 5. Protection from the Avenger of Blood The cities provided protection from the "avenger of blood" (גֹּאֵל הַדָּם, go'el ha-dam), a family member seeking to avenge the death. This role was part of the kinship responsibilities in ancient Israel, but the cities of refuge ensured that vengeance did not override justice. 6. Duration of Stay in the City of Refuge The manslayer was required to stay in the city of refuge until the death of the high priest. This provision linked the manslayer's release to a significant religious event, symbolizing a form of atonement and new beginning. 7. Designation of Specific Cities Joshua 20 concludes with the naming of six specific cities as cities of refuge: Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan. These cities were strategically located throughout the land to be accessible to all Israelites, reflecting God's provision and care for His people. Themes 1. Divine Justice and Mercy Joshua 20 outlines the establishment of cities of refuge, which reflects God's justice and mercy. These cities provided a safe haven for those who committed manslaughter unintentionally, allowing them to escape the avenger of blood. This theme highlights God's provision for justice tempered with mercy. The Hebrew word for "refuge" (מִקְלָט, ^miqlat^) emphasizes a place of safety and protection. 2. Obedience to God's Command The chapter begins with the LORD speaking to Joshua, instructing him to designate cities of refuge as commanded through Moses (Joshua 20:1-2). This theme underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands as a means of maintaining order and justice within the community. 3. Community Responsibility The cities of refuge were a communal responsibility, as they were to be accessible to all Israelites and foreigners residing among them (Joshua 20:9). This theme emphasizes the collective responsibility of the community to uphold justice and provide protection for the vulnerable. 4. Sanctity of Life The provision for cities of refuge underscores the sanctity of human life. By distinguishing between intentional murder and accidental killing, the law upholds the value of life and the need for careful discernment in matters of justice (Joshua 20:3). 5. Restoration and Reconciliation The cities of refuge allowed for a process of restoration and reconciliation. The accused could live in the city until the death of the high priest, after which they could return home without fear (Joshua 20:6). This theme points to the possibility of redemption and the restoration of relationships within the community. 6. Symbolism of Christ as Our Refuge From a Christian perspective, the cities of refuge can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ, who is our ultimate refuge and source of salvation. Just as the cities provided safety for the manslayer, Christ offers spiritual refuge and protection from the consequences of sin. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Justice and Mercy Thank God for His perfect balance of justice and mercy, as demonstrated through the cities of refuge. Guidance in Upholding Justice Pray for wisdom and courage to uphold justice in your community and personal life. Compassion for the Hurting Ask God to give you a heart of compassion for those who are hurting or in need of refuge. Strength to Reconcile Seek God's strength and grace to pursue reconciliation in strained relationships. Trust in God's Protection Pray for a deeper trust in God as your refuge and protector in all circumstances. Answering Tough Questions 1. Where is the archaeological evidence confirming the six cities of refuge mentioned in Joshua 20:7–8? 2. How does the system of protection for manslaughter in Joshua 20:1–6 align or conflict with other Mosaic laws on homicide and justice? 3. Why would a just God need these specific cities of refuge in Joshua 20 if He could prevent unjust killings in the first place? 4. How can the compassionate approach to accidental killers in Joshua 20 be reconciled with the violent conquests described earlier, such as in Joshua 6? 5. Is there any extrabiblical historical record substantiating the actual practice of these refuge cities as set forth in Joshua 20? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the establishment of the cities of refuge reflect God's justice and mercy? 2. What can modern societies learn from the concept of a city of refuge? 3. How does the concept of the avenger of blood compare to our current understanding of justice? 4. How does the city elders' role in accepting the manslayer reflect community responsibility? 5. Why was it necessary for the manslayer to stay in the city until the death of the high priest? 6. How do the cities of refuge promote fairness and prevent vengeance? 7. What significance does the equal treatment of Israelites and foreigners in these cities carry for us today? 8. How can the idea of cities of refuge inform our views on refugee and asylum policies today? 9. How does the mandate of standing trial before an assembly uphold the principle of public accountability? 10. How does the concept of cities of refuge contrast with current penal systems and concepts of justice? 11. What can we learn from the cities of refuge about God's protection and providence? 12. How might the concept of cities of refuge guide us in dealing with people who have made 1. mistakes in our own lives? 13. Why do you think the death of the high priest was chosen as the time when the manslayer could return home? 14. In what ways does the instruction for establishing cities of refuge show God's foresight and wisdom? 15. How does the concept of refuge resonate with the broader Biblical theme of God being our refuge? 16. How does this system ensure that the punishment is proportional to the crime committed? 17. How does the process of a fugitive presenting his case to the city elders highlight the importance of listening and understanding in our relationships today? 18. Why do you think these specific cities were chosen as cities of refuge? 19. How does the process of designating cities of refuge demonstrate faith in action? 20. In what ways can we create metaphorical 'cities of refuge' in our personal lives and communities today? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions