Joshua 20:9

These are the cities appointed for all the Israelites and foreigners among them, so that anyone who kills a person unintentionally may flee there and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood prior to standing trial before the assembly.

Study Bible

These are the cities appointed for all the Israelites and foreigners among them
The cities of refuge were designated by God through Moses and later established by Joshua. They served as a sanctuary for those who committed manslaughter unintentionally. This provision was not only for the Israelites but also extended to foreigners residing among them, reflecting God's justice and mercy. The inclusion of foreigners highlights the universality of God's law and His concern for justice for all people, not just His chosen nation. This inclusivity foreshadows the New Testament message of salvation being available to all nations through Christ.

so that anyone who kills a person unintentionally may flee there
The concept of unintentional killing, or manslaughter, is distinguished from premeditated murder in the Mosaic Law. The cities of refuge provided a safe haven for those who accidentally caused a death, protecting them from immediate retribution. This reflects the biblical principle of justice tempered with mercy. The provision for refuge underscores the importance of intent in God's law, a theme that is echoed in the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the heart's intentions over mere actions.

and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood
The "avenger of blood" was typically a close relative of the deceased, responsible for ensuring justice by avenging the death. This practice was common in ancient Near Eastern cultures and was a way to maintain family honor and societal order. However, the cities of refuge provided a legal and humane alternative to the cycle of vengeance, allowing for due process. This system points to the need for a mediator, a role ultimately fulfilled by Christ, who intercedes on behalf of sinners.

prior to standing trial before the assembly
The requirement for a trial before the assembly ensured that justice was served fairly and that the accused had the opportunity to present their case. This reflects the biblical principle of justice and the importance of community involvement in legal matters. The assembly, likely composed of elders and leaders, acted as judges to determine the intent and circumstances of the killing. This process prefigures the final judgment, where Christ will judge all humanity with perfect justice and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cities of Refuge
These were specific cities designated by God through Moses and Joshua as safe havens for those who committed manslaughter unintentionally. They provided protection from the "avenger of blood" until a fair trial could be conducted.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the law and the land of Canaan. The cities of refuge were part of the legal system established for them.

3. Foreigners
Non-Israelites residing among the Israelites. The inclusion of foreigners in the provision of refuge highlights God's justice and mercy extended to all people.

4. Avenger of Blood
A family member of the deceased who had the cultural and legal right to avenge the death. The cities of refuge provided a means to prevent blood feuds and ensure justice.

5. Assembly
The governing body or community leaders who would conduct the trial to determine the guilt or innocence of the person seeking refuge.

Teaching Points

God's Justice and Mercy
The cities of refuge illustrate God's balance of justice and mercy, providing protection while ensuring accountability.

Inclusivity in God's Law
The inclusion of foreigners in the provision of refuge demonstrates God's care for all people, not just the Israelites.

The Importance of Due Process
The requirement for a trial before the assembly underscores the importance of due process and fair judgment in God's legal system.

Spiritual Refuge in Christ
Just as the cities of refuge provided safety, Christ is our spiritual refuge, offering protection and salvation from sin.

Community Responsibility
The role of the assembly in determining the outcome highlights the responsibility of the community in upholding justice and mercy.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways does the provision for foreigners in the cities of refuge challenge us to think about inclusivity in our communities today?

3. How can the concept of the avenger of blood be understood in the context of modern justice systems?

4. What parallels can we draw between the cities of refuge and the refuge we find in Christ?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, ensure that we are upholding justice and mercy in our interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter provides detailed instructions about the cities of refuge, including their purpose and the laws governing them.

Deuteronomy 19
Offers further explanation of the cities of refuge and the importance of justice and due process.

Hebrews 6
Discusses the concept of refuge in a spiritual sense, where believers find refuge in the hope set before them in Christ.