Joshua 20:3

so that anyone who kills another unintentionally or accidentally may flee there. These will be your refuge from the avenger of blood.

Study Bible

so that anyone who kills another unintentionally or accidentally
This phrase refers to the provision made for those who commit manslaughter, distinguishing between intentional murder and accidental killing. In ancient Israelite society, the distinction was crucial for maintaining justice and order. The cities of refuge were established to protect those who killed without premeditation or malice, as outlined in Numbers 35:9-15 and Deuteronomy 19:1-13. This reflects God's justice and mercy, recognizing human fallibility and the need for a fair trial. The concept underscores the value of human life and the importance of intent in moral and legal judgments.

may flee there
The act of fleeing to a city of refuge was a legal right and a necessary step for protection. It highlights the urgency and desperation of the situation for the manslayer, who needed immediate sanctuary to avoid retribution. The cities were strategically located throughout Israel to be accessible, as seen in Joshua 20:7-9. This accessibility ensured that justice was not only a matter of law but also of practical application. Theologically, this can be seen as a precursor to the refuge found in Christ, who offers protection and salvation to those who seek Him.

These will be your refuge
The cities of refuge served as a physical and legal sanctuary, providing safety from the avenger of blood until a fair trial could be conducted. This system reflects God's provision for justice and mercy, ensuring that the accused had a chance to be heard. The term "refuge" is significant throughout Scripture, often used metaphorically to describe God's protection (e.g., Psalm 46:1). In a broader sense, these cities symbolize the ultimate refuge found in God, who is a shelter for the oppressed and a stronghold in times of trouble.

from the avenger of blood
The "avenger of blood" was typically a close relative of the deceased, responsible for avenging the death according to ancient Near Eastern customs. This role was part of the kinship obligations and was intended to uphold family honor and justice. However, the cities of refuge provided a means to prevent the cycle of vengeance and bloodshed, allowing for due process. This system points to the need for a higher form of justice, one that transcends personal retribution. In the New Testament, Jesus is seen as the ultimate avenger of injustice, yet He also embodies mercy and forgiveness, fulfilling the law and offering grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cities of Refuge
Designated places where individuals who committed manslaughter could seek asylum to avoid retribution from the "avenger of blood" until a fair trial could be conducted.

2. Avenger of Blood
A family member of the deceased who had the cultural duty to avenge the death, often by killing the person responsible for the death.

3. Unintentional Manslayer
An individual who killed another person accidentally or without premeditation, who could seek refuge in these cities.

4. Joshua
The leader of Israel at the time, responsible for implementing God's instructions regarding the cities of refuge.

5. Israelites
The people of God who were given these laws to ensure justice and mercy within their community.

Teaching Points

God's Justice and Mercy
The cities of refuge illustrate God's perfect balance of justice and mercy. While justice demands accountability, mercy provides protection and a chance for a fair trial.

The Sanctity of Life
The provision for cities of refuge underscores the value God places on human life, ensuring that even accidental death is taken seriously and addressed appropriately.

Christ as Our Refuge
Just as the cities of refuge provided safety for the manslayer, Christ offers refuge for sinners. Believers can find safety and forgiveness in Him.

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

Intentionality in Actions
The distinction between intentional and unintentional actions calls believers to be mindful of their actions and the impact they have on others.

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 attributes in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the concept of the "avenger of blood" challenge or affirm our understanding of justice and forgiveness?

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

4. What parallels can we draw between the cities of refuge and the refuge we find in Christ, and how does this impact our faith journey?

5. How can we ensure that our actions are intentional and considerate of others, reflecting the principles found in Joshua 20:3?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35:9-34
Provides detailed instructions about the cities of refuge, emphasizing the balance between justice and mercy.

Deuteronomy 19:1-13
Reiterates the establishment of cities of refuge and the importance of distinguishing 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.