Numbers 35:21

or if in hostility he strikes him with his hand and he dies, the one who struck him must surely be put to death; he is a murderer. When the avenger of blood finds the murderer, he is to kill him.

Study Bible

or if in hostility
The phrase "in hostility" is derived from the Hebrew word "אֵיבָה" (eyvah), which conveys a sense of enmity or malice. This indicates a premeditated or intentional act of harm, contrasting with accidental or unintentional actions. In the ancient Near Eastern context, intent was crucial in determining guilt and appropriate punishment. The Bible consistently emphasizes the heart's condition, underscoring that God judges not only actions but the motives behind them.

he strikes him with his hand
The act of striking with the hand implies a personal and direct form of violence. In ancient Israelite society, physical altercations were not uncommon, but the law distinguished between accidental harm and deliberate assault. The hand, often symbolic of power and action, here becomes an instrument of sin when used to harm another intentionally. This highlights the responsibility individuals have over their actions and the use of their strength.

and he dies
The consequence of the action is death, which in biblical terms is the ultimate separation from life and community. The gravity of causing another's death is underscored throughout Scripture, reflecting the sanctity of life as created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Death as a result of hostility and violence is a perversion of God's original design for human relationships.

the one who struck him must surely be put to death
This phrase reflects the principle of lex talionis, or the law of retribution, which is foundational in Mosaic Law. The Hebrew phrase "מוֹת יוּמָת" (mot yumat) is emphatic, indicating the certainty and necessity of the death penalty for murder. This underscores the seriousness with which God views the taking of innocent life and serves as a deterrent to premeditated violence.

for he is a murderer
The term "murderer" (רֹצֵחַ, rotzeach) is used to describe someone who unlawfully takes a life with intent. This designation carries a moral and legal weight, distinguishing between manslaughter and murder. In biblical law, murder is a violation not only against the individual but against God, who is the giver of life.

The avenger of blood
The "avenger of blood" (גֹּאֵל הַדָּם, go'el ha-dam) was typically a close relative responsible for ensuring justice for the deceased. This role was part of the kinship obligations in ancient Israel, reflecting the communal nature of justice. The avenger acted as an agent of divine justice, emphasizing the community's role in upholding God's laws.

is to put him to death
The directive for the avenger to execute justice underscores the communal responsibility in maintaining order and righteousness. It reflects the seriousness with which God views murder and the necessity of upholding justice to prevent societal chaos. This also points to the ultimate justice of God, who will one day judge all actions.

when he finds him
The phrase "when he finds him" indicates the immediacy and inevitability of justice. It suggests that the murderer cannot escape the consequences of his actions, reflecting the biblical principle that sin will ultimately be exposed and judged. This serves as a sobering reminder of the certainty of divine justice and the importance of living righteously before God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Murderer
The individual who intentionally kills another person out of hostility. In the context of Numbers 35, this person is subject to capital punishment.

2. The Avenger of Blood
A family member of the victim responsible for executing justice by putting the murderer to death. This role was part of the ancient Israelite justice system.

3. The City of Refuge
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, these cities are relevant to the context. They were designated places where someone accused of manslaughter could seek asylum until a fair trial.

4. The Assembly
The community or group responsible for judging the case and determining whether the act was murder or manslaughter.

5. The Victim
The person who was killed, whose death prompts the legal and moral proceedings described in the passage.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Life
The passage underscores the value God places on human life and the seriousness of taking it unlawfully.

Justice and Mercy
While justice demands accountability for murder, the provision of cities of refuge shows God's mercy and the importance of due process.

The Role of Intent
The distinction between murder and manslaughter highlights the importance of intent in God's justice system.

Community Responsibility
The involvement of the avenger of blood and the assembly reflects the communal responsibility in upholding justice and righteousness.

Heart Matters
As Jesus taught, the root of murder lies in the heart's hostility and anger, calling believers to examine their hearts and seek reconciliation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the avenger of blood in ancient Israel compare to modern concepts of justice and law enforcement?

2. In what ways does the provision of cities of refuge demonstrate God's balance of justice and mercy?

3. How can understanding the distinction between murder and manslaughter in Numbers 35:21 help us in dealing with issues of intent and accountability today?

4. Reflect on Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:21-22. How does this deepen our understanding of the commandment against murder?

5. What steps can we take to address and resolve anger and hostility in our hearts before they lead to destructive actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:12-14
This passage outlines the laws regarding murder and manslaughter, providing a broader context for understanding the justice system in ancient Israel.

Deuteronomy 19:11-13
These verses further explain the role of the avenger of blood and the conditions under which a murderer should be put to death.

Matthew 5:21-22
Jesus expands on the commandment against murder, addressing the heart's intentions and the sin of anger, which can lead to such acts.