Numbers 35:15

These six cities will serve as a refuge for the Israelites and for the foreigner or stranger among them, so that anyone who kills a person unintentionally may flee there.

Study Bible

These six cities
The concept of "six cities" refers to the cities of refuge established by God for the Israelites. In the Hebrew context, the number six often symbolizes imperfection or incompleteness, yet here it represents a complete provision for justice and mercy. These cities were strategically located throughout the land to ensure accessibility, reflecting God's desire for justice to be within reach for all His people.

will serve as a refuge
The term "refuge" in Hebrew is "מִקְלָט" (miqlat), meaning a place of safety or asylum. This reflects God's merciful provision for those who have committed unintentional manslaughter. The cities of refuge symbolize God's grace and protection, offering a sanctuary where justice and mercy meet. This concept foreshadows the ultimate refuge found in Christ, who provides spiritual safety for believers.

for the Israelites
The Israelites, God's chosen people, were given these cities as part of their covenant relationship with Him. This provision underscores God's commitment to justice and His desire to maintain order within the community. It also highlights the importance of communal responsibility and the value of human life within the Israelite society.

as well as for the foreigner or temporary resident among them
This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of God's justice. The Hebrew words "גֵּר" (ger) for foreigner and "תוֹשָׁב" (toshav) for temporary resident indicate that God's laws and provisions were not limited to ethnic Israelites but extended to all who lived among them. This inclusivity reflects God's universal concern for justice and His desire for all people to experience His mercy.

so that anyone who kills another accidentally
The phrase "kills another accidentally" refers to unintentional manslaughter, distinguishing it from premeditated murder. The Hebrew word "שָׁגָגָה" (shagagah) implies an act done in error or without intent. This distinction is crucial in understanding God's justice system, which differentiates between intentional sin and unintentional acts, offering mercy to those who err without malice.

may flee there
The act of fleeing to a city of refuge was a means of seeking protection and justice. The Hebrew verb "נוּס" (nus) means to flee or escape, indicating urgency and the need for immediate protection. This provision allowed the accused to escape the avenger of blood until a fair trial could be conducted, ensuring that justice was served without undue haste or vengeance.

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.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws and statutes, including the cities of refuge, were given.

3. The Levites
The tribe responsible for maintaining the cities of refuge and ensuring justice was served according to God's law.

4. The Manslayer
An individual who accidentally kills another person and seeks refuge to avoid the avenger of blood.

5. The Avenger of Blood
A family member of the deceased who seeks justice or revenge for the killing.

Teaching Points

God's Justice and Mercy
The cities of refuge illustrate God's balance of justice and mercy, providing protection for those who commit unintentional sins while ensuring justice is served.

The Sanctity of Life
This statute underscores the value God places on human life and the importance of distinguishing between intentional and unintentional harm.

Christ as Our Refuge
Just as the cities provided safety for the manslayer, Christ offers refuge and salvation for sinners seeking forgiveness and protection from the consequences of sin.

Community Responsibility
The establishment of these cities highlights the community's role in upholding justice and mercy, ensuring that both the victim's family and the accused are treated fairly.

Generational Statutes
The command for these laws to be observed "throughout your generations" emphasizes the enduring nature of God's principles and the importance of teaching them to future generations.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways can we see the concept of refuge in our relationship with Christ today?

3. How does the distinction between intentional and unintentional sin in Numbers 35:15 apply to our understanding of sin and repentance?

4. What responsibilities do we have as a community to ensure justice and mercy are upheld in our society?

5. How can we teach the principles found in Numbers 35:15 to future generations in a way that is relevant and impactful?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 20
This chapter provides further details on the cities of refuge, including their names and locations, and reiterates their purpose.

Deuteronomy 19
Offers additional laws concerning the cities of refuge and the distinction between intentional and unintentional killing.

Hebrews 6:18
Draws a parallel between the cities of refuge and the hope we have in Christ, who provides refuge for sinners.