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 also to measure two thousand cubits outside the city on the east,
The instruction to measure two thousand cubits (approximately 3,000 feet or 914 meters) outside the city indicates a specific boundary for the cities of refuge. This measurement reflects the importance of precision in God's commands, emphasizing order and structure. The eastward direction is often associated with new beginnings in biblical symbolism, as the sun rises in the east, suggesting a fresh start for those seeking refuge.

two thousand on the south,
The southern boundary, like the others, is set at two thousand cubits, ensuring uniformity around the city. The south in biblical terms can symbolize warmth and growth, as it is associated with the direction of the sun's path. This could imply a nurturing environment for those who reside within the city of refuge.

two thousand on the west,
The western boundary also extends two thousand cubits. In biblical narratives, the west can symbolize the end of a journey or the setting of the sun, which might represent the conclusion of one's past life and the beginning of a new chapter within the city of refuge. This direction is significant in the context of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land, which lay to the west of their wilderness wanderings.

and two thousand on the north,
The northern boundary completes the square around the city. The north is often associated with danger or judgment in biblical literature, as invaders typically came from the north. However, in this context, it serves as a protective measure, ensuring that the city is equally defended on all sides, providing safety and security for those within.

with the city in the center.
Placing the city in the center of these boundaries highlights its role as a focal point of refuge and justice. This centrality can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the center of Christian faith and the ultimate refuge for believers. The city’s central position ensures equal access from all directions, symbolizing the impartiality and fairness of God's provision.

These areas will serve as larger pasturelands for the cities.
The designation of these areas as pasturelands indicates a practical purpose, providing sustenance for the inhabitants and their livestock. This reflects God's provision and care for His people, ensuring that their physical needs are met. The pasturelands also symbolize peace and rest, as they are places where flocks can graze safely, echoing the pastoral imagery found in Psalm 23, where the Lord is depicted as a shepherd providing for His flock.

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.