Numbers 35:11

designate cities to serve as your cities of refuge, so that a person who kills someone unintentionally may flee there.

Study Bible

select cities
The Hebrew word for "select" is "בָּדַל" (badal), which means to separate or set apart. This indicates a divine choice and purpose, emphasizing that these cities were not ordinary but were designated by God for a special function. The concept of setting apart is a recurring theme in Scripture, reflecting God's holiness and His call for His people to be distinct. Archaeologically, these cities were strategically located throughout Israel to be accessible, underscoring God's provision and justice.

cities of refuge
The Hebrew term "עָרֵי מִקְלָט" (arei miqlat) refers to places of asylum. These cities were a revolutionary concept in ancient Near Eastern law, providing protection and due process for those who had caused accidental harm. Historically, this system reflects God's mercy and justice, ensuring that even those who committed unintentional acts had a place of safety. Theologically, these cities foreshadow Christ as our ultimate refuge, offering protection from the consequences of sin.

manslayer
The Hebrew word "רֹצֵחַ" (rotseach) is used here, which typically means a killer or murderer. However, in this context, it refers specifically to someone who kills unintentionally. This distinction is crucial, as it separates premeditated murder from accidental death, highlighting the importance of intent in God's justice system. This reflects the biblical principle that God judges the heart and intentions, not just outward actions.

kills someone unintentionally
The phrase "unintentionally" is translated from the Hebrew "בִּשְׁגָגָה" (bishgagah), meaning without intent or by mistake. This underscores the importance of motive in biblical law. The provision for unintentional killing shows God's understanding of human fallibility and His desire for justice tempered with mercy. It also points to the need for discernment and wisdom in applying the law, a theme echoed throughout Scripture.

may flee there
The Hebrew verb "נָס" (nas) means to flee or escape. This action implies urgency and desperation, reflecting the immediate danger faced by the manslayer from the avenger of blood. Theologically, this fleeing is symbolic of the sinner's need to seek refuge in God, who provides safety and protection. It is a vivid picture of repentance and the pursuit of divine mercy, encouraging believers to seek God earnestly in times of trouble.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cities of Refuge
Designated places where individuals who committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum to avoid revenge from the victim's family until a fair trial could be conducted.

2. Manslayer
A person who has killed another unintentionally, without premeditation or malice aforethought.

3. Israelites
The people of God to whom these laws were given, emphasizing justice and mercy within their community.

4. Levitical Cities
The cities of refuge were among the 48 cities given to the Levites, the priestly tribe of Israel, indicating a connection between justice and spiritual oversight.

5. Avenger of Blood
A family member of the deceased who had the cultural duty to avenge the death, highlighting the need for a legal system to prevent cycles of violence.

Teaching Points

Justice and Mercy
The cities of refuge illustrate God's balance of justice and mercy, providing protection for those who have sinned unintentionally while ensuring a fair trial.

The Sanctity of Life
This law underscores the value God places on human life, requiring careful consideration and due process before taking action against someone who has caused a death.

Spiritual Refuge
Just as the cities provided physical safety, believers today find spiritual refuge in Christ, who offers protection and forgiveness.

Community Responsibility
The establishment of these cities highlights the community's role in upholding justice and protecting the vulnerable, a principle that applies to the church today.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
The provision for unintentional manslaughter encourages forgiveness and reconciliation, rather than revenge, within the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the cities of refuge reflect God's character in terms of justice and mercy, and how can we apply these principles in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the concept of a city of refuge point to Jesus as our ultimate refuge, and how can this understanding impact our faith?

3. How can the church today act as a "city of refuge" for those seeking forgiveness and restoration?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our communities uphold justice and protect the innocent, as modeled by the cities of refuge?

5. How does the principle of forgiveness and reconciliation, as seen in the provision for unintentional manslaughter, challenge us in our personal relationships and conflicts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 20
This chapter provides further details on the cities of refuge, including their names and locations, reinforcing the importance of these cities in Israelite society.

Deuteronomy 19
Offers additional laws concerning the cities of refuge, emphasizing the need for justice and the protection of the innocent.

Hebrews 6:18
Draws a spiritual parallel to the concept of refuge, where believers find safety in God, much like the manslayer found safety in the cities of refuge.