Numbers 35:5

You are also to measure two thousand cubits outside the city on the east, two thousand on the south, two thousand on the west, and two thousand on the north, with the city in the center. These areas will serve as larger pasturelands for the cities.

Study Bible

You are to measure
The directive to "measure" indicates a precise and intentional action. In the Hebrew context, the word used here is "madad," which implies a careful and deliberate act of determining boundaries. This reflects God's orderliness and His desire for His people to live within defined limits, both physically and spiritually. The act of measuring is a reminder of God's sovereignty and His provision of space for His people to thrive.

a thousand cubits
The "cubit" is an ancient unit of length, roughly equivalent to the length of a forearm, about 18 inches or 45 centimeters. The specification of "a thousand cubits" suggests a significant area, emphasizing the importance of adequate space for the needs of the Levites and their livestock. This measurement underscores God's provision and care for the practical needs of His people, ensuring they have enough resources to sustain their community.

outside the city
The phrase "outside the city" indicates a separation between the urban center and the surrounding land. This separation is significant in maintaining the sanctity and order of the city, which often served as a place of refuge and worship. The delineation of space outside the city for pastureland reflects God's wisdom in balancing urban and rural needs, ensuring that both spiritual and physical sustenance are provided for His people.

to the east side
The mention of the "east side" is the beginning of a detailed description of the boundaries. In biblical symbolism, the east often represents new beginnings and the direction from which God's glory appears (as seen in Ezekiel 43:2). This directional instruction highlights the comprehensive nature of God's provision, encompassing all directions and aspects of life.

two thousand cubits
The repetition of "two thousand cubits" for the south, west, and north sides emphasizes the uniformity and fairness in the allocation of land. This consistency reflects God's justice and equality in His dealings with His people. The doubling of the measurement from the east side suggests an abundance and generosity in God's provision, ensuring ample space for the needs of the community.

with the city in the center
Placing "the city in the center" signifies the centrality of community and worship in the life of God's people. The city, often a place of refuge and governance, is surrounded by the land that supports it, illustrating the interconnectedness of spiritual and physical life. This central positioning serves as a reminder that God should be at the heart of all aspects of life, guiding and sustaining His people.

This area will serve as pastureland
The designation of the area as "pastureland" highlights the practical and necessary provision for the Levites' livestock. In an agrarian society, pastureland was essential for survival and prosperity. This provision reflects God's understanding of the daily needs of His people and His desire to provide for them in every aspect of life.

for the cities
The phrase "for the cities" indicates that this provision is not just for individual benefit but for the collective well-being of the community. The cities, as centers of refuge and worship, require support from the surrounding land to function effectively. This communal focus underscores the biblical principle of living in community, where resources are shared, and the needs of all are considered.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The people to whom God gave the laws and instructions through Moses. They are the recipients of the instructions regarding the cities of refuge and the surrounding pasturelands.

2. Cities of Refuge
Designated cities where individuals who committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum. These cities were part of the Levitical cities.

3. Levites
The tribe of Israel set apart for religious duties and service to God. They were given cities and surrounding pasturelands instead of a territorial inheritance.

4. Pastureland
The area surrounding the Levitical cities, designated for the grazing of livestock, ensuring the Levites had means to sustain themselves.

5. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received and communicated God's laws and instructions to the people.

Teaching Points

God's Provision and Order
God provides for the needs of His people, ensuring the Levites have both a place to live and means to sustain themselves. This reflects God's care and order in community life.

Justice and Mercy
The cities of refuge illustrate God's balance of justice and mercy, providing a place of safety for those who have unintentionally caused harm, while still upholding the law.

Community Responsibility
The Israelites were responsible for maintaining these cities and their surrounding lands, highlighting the importance of community support and shared responsibility.

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

Boundaries and Balance
The specific measurements for the pasturelands remind us of the importance of boundaries and balance in our lives, ensuring that all aspects of life are cared for.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of cities of refuge reflect God's character in terms of justice and mercy, and how can we apply this balance in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the provision of pastureland for the Levites demonstrate God's care for His people, and how can we trust in God's provision today?

3. How do the boundaries set for the pasturelands relate to the idea of setting healthy boundaries in our personal and spiritual lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the cities of refuge and the refuge we find in Christ, and how can this understanding impact our daily walk with God?

5. How can the community responsibility seen in the maintenance of the Levitical cities inspire us to support and care for our own communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 21
This chapter details the allocation of the Levitical cities, including the cities of refuge, fulfilling the instructions given in Numbers 35.

Deuteronomy 19
Provides additional laws concerning the cities of refuge, emphasizing the protection of those who accidentally cause harm.

Hebrews 6:18
Discusses the concept of refuge in a spiritual sense, drawing a parallel to the hope and safety found in Christ.