Joshua 20:6

He is to stay in that city until he stands trial before the assembly and until the death of the high priest serving at that time. Then the manslayer may return to his own home in the city from which he fled."

Study Bible

He is to stay in that city
This phrase refers to the city of refuge, a designated place where someone who has accidentally killed another person can seek asylum. The cities of refuge were established by God through Moses (Numbers 35:9-15) and were strategically located throughout Israel to be accessible to all. This provision underscores the value of human life and the importance of justice tempered with mercy.

until he stands trial before the assembly
The assembly refers to the local congregation or elders who would hear the case of the manslayer. This trial was necessary to determine whether the killing was accidental or premeditated. The process reflects the judicial system established in Israel, which emphasized fairness and the rule of law (Deuteronomy 19:12). It also foreshadows the ultimate judgment before God, where every deed is weighed.

and until the death of the high priest serving at that time
The high priest held a significant role in Israel as the spiritual leader and mediator between God and the people. His death marked a transition and provided a form of atonement, allowing the manslayer to return home. This provision highlights the concept of substitutionary atonement, a theme that is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, our High Priest, whose death provides ultimate redemption and freedom from sin (Hebrews 9:11-14).

Then the manslayer may return to his own home
The return to one's home signifies restoration and reconciliation. It indicates that the period of refuge was temporary and served its purpose in protecting the manslayer from the avenger of blood. This return is symbolic of the believer's reconciliation with God through Christ, who provides a permanent refuge and restores us to our intended place in His family (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

in the city from which he fled.
The city from which the manslayer fled represents his original community and life. The ability to return signifies the restoration of relationships and the reintegration into society. This mirrors the biblical theme of exile and return, seen throughout Scripture, where God’s people are often exiled due to sin but are promised restoration and return through repentance and God’s grace (Jeremiah 29:10-14).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Manslayer
An individual who has unintentionally killed someone and seeks refuge in a city of refuge to avoid revenge from the avenger of blood.

2. City of Refuge
Designated cities where those who committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum and be protected from the avenger of blood until a fair trial.

3. The Assembly
The group of elders or leaders who would conduct the trial to determine the manslayer's fate.

4. The High Priest
The religious leader whose death marked the end of the manslayer's required stay in the city of refuge, allowing them to return home.

5. The Avenger of Blood
A family member of the deceased who sought to avenge the death, according to ancient customs.

Teaching Points

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

The Role of the High Priest
The high priest's death symbolizes a new beginning and freedom for the manslayer, pointing to Christ's role as our eternal High Priest who grants us freedom from sin.

Community Responsibility
The assembly's role in the trial emphasizes the importance of community involvement in justice and reconciliation processes.

The Sanctity of Life
The provision for cities of refuge underscores the value God places on human life and the need for careful discernment in matters of life and death.

Spiritual Refuge in Christ
Just as the manslayer found refuge in the city, believers find spiritual refuge in Christ, who offers protection and hope.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a city of refuge reflect God's character in terms of justice and mercy?

2. In what ways does the role of the high priest in Joshua 20:6 foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest?

3. How can the principles of justice and mercy seen in the cities of refuge be applied in our modern justice systems?

4. What does the requirement for the manslayer to stay until the high priest's death teach us about patience and waiting for God's timing?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, ensure that we are providing a place of refuge and support for those seeking forgiveness and restoration?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
Provides detailed instructions about the cities of refuge and the laws concerning manslaughter and murder.

Deuteronomy 19
Reiterates the establishment of cities of refuge and the importance of justice and mercy in these cases.

Hebrews 6
Discusses Jesus as our refuge, drawing a parallel to the cities of refuge as a place of safety and hope.