Numbers 35:15

These six cities will serve as a refuge for the Israelites and for the foreigner or stranger among them, so that anyone who kills a person unintentionally may flee there.

Study Bible

These six cities will serve as a refuge
The concept of cities of refuge is introduced in the Mosaic Law as a merciful provision for those who commit manslaughter unintentionally. These cities were strategically located throughout the land of Israel to be accessible to all. The number six is significant, often representing completeness in biblical numerology. The cities of refuge symbolize God's justice and mercy, providing protection from the avenger of blood, a family member seeking retribution for the death. This system underscores the value of human life and the importance of due process.

for the Israelites
The Israelites, as God's chosen people, were given specific laws to govern their society. The cities of refuge were part of the legal system that distinguished between murder and manslaughter, reflecting the sanctity of life. This provision ensured that justice was tempered with mercy, aligning with the character of God as both just and compassionate. The cities served as a reminder of God's covenant with Israel and His desire for them to live in a society marked by righteousness and fairness.

and for the foreigner or stranger among them
The inclusion of foreigners or strangers highlights the universality of God's justice and mercy. It reflects the biblical principle that God's laws and provisions were not only for the Israelites but also for those who lived among them. This inclusivity points to the broader biblical theme of God's concern for all humanity, foreshadowing the New Testament message of salvation available to all through Jesus Christ. It also emphasizes the importance of treating foreigners with fairness and compassion, as seen in other parts of the Mosaic Law.

so that anyone who kills a person unintentionally
The distinction between intentional and unintentional killing is crucial in biblical law. Unintentional killing, or manslaughter, did not carry the same moral culpability as murder. The cities of refuge provided a place for the accused to seek asylum and await a fair trial, preventing blood vengeance. This legal provision reflects the biblical principle of justice, ensuring that punishment is proportionate to the crime and that innocent blood is not shed.

may flee there
The act of fleeing to a city of refuge symbolizes seeking God's protection and justice. It required the individual to take immediate action to preserve their life, demonstrating the seriousness of the situation. This provision also points to the need for a mediator or place of safety, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who provides refuge for sinners seeking forgiveness and protection from the consequences of sin. The cities of refuge serve as a type of Christ, who is our ultimate refuge and advocate before God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cities of Refuge
Designated places where individuals who committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum to avoid revenge from the victim's family.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws and statutes, including the cities of refuge, were given.

3. The Levites
The tribe responsible for maintaining the cities of refuge and ensuring justice was served according to God's law.

4. The Manslayer
An individual who accidentally kills another person and seeks refuge to avoid the avenger of blood.

5. The Avenger of Blood
A family member of the deceased who seeks justice or revenge for the killing.

Teaching Points

God's Justice and Mercy
The cities of refuge illustrate God's balance of justice and mercy, providing protection for those who commit unintentional sins while ensuring justice is served.

The Sanctity of Life
This statute underscores the value God places on human life and the importance of distinguishing between intentional and unintentional harm.

Christ as Our Refuge
Just as the cities provided safety for the manslayer, Christ offers refuge and salvation for sinners seeking forgiveness and protection from the consequences of sin.

Community Responsibility
The establishment of these cities highlights the community's role in upholding justice and mercy, ensuring that both the victim's family and the accused are treated fairly.

Generational Statutes
The command for these laws to be observed "throughout your generations" emphasizes the enduring nature of God's principles and the importance of teaching them to future generations.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways can we see the concept of refuge in our relationship with Christ today?

3. How does the distinction between intentional and unintentional sin in Numbers 35:15 apply to our understanding of sin and repentance?

4. What responsibilities do we have as a community to ensure justice and mercy are upheld in our society?

5. How can we teach the principles found in Numbers 35:15 to future generations in a way that is relevant and impactful?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 20
This chapter provides further details on the cities of refuge, including their names and locations, and reiterates their purpose.

Deuteronomy 19
Offers additional laws concerning the cities of refuge and the distinction 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.