What is the meaning of Joshua 20:6? He is to stay in that city • God appointed six cities of refuge (Numbers 35:11–12; Deuteronomy 19:1–3) so that anyone who killed another unintentionally could flee there and live safely. • Remaining inside the city walls showed submission to God-given authority and protected the manslayer from the “avenger of blood” (Numbers 35:19). • The arrangement balances mercy with responsibility: the manslayer avoids premature vengeance yet acknowledges that a life was lost and justice must still be addressed. Until he stands trial before the assembly • Israel’s elders gathered to weigh evidence and hear witnesses (Numbers 35:24; Deuteronomy 19:17–18). • Due process prevented mob justice and upheld the sixth commandment’s regard for life (Exodus 20:13). • The assembly’s verdict identified true accidental killing versus murder, ensuring the city of refuge remained a place for the innocent, not a loophole for the guilty. And until the death of the high priest serving at that time • The high priest represented the nation before God; his death marked a nationwide transition. Numbers 35:28 states, “after the death of the high priest, the manslayer may return.” • The high priest’s passing symbolically closed the case, satisfying community conscience and dissolving the avenger’s claim. • This foreshadows Christ, our great High Priest whose once-for-all death secures ultimate refuge and releases believers from condemnation (Hebrews 9:11–12; 10:19–22). Then the manslayer may return to his own home • Freedom was complete: the manslayer went “to his own home,” fully restored to normal life (Joshua 20:6; cf. Numbers 35:26–28). • The provision protected both parties—no lingering resentment from the avenger and no fear for the manslayer—promoting peace within Israel. • Like the Jubilee release (Leviticus 25:10), this return underscores God’s pattern of redemption: debt or guilt may bind for a season, but He makes a way for renewal. summary Joshua 20:6 shows the Lord’s perfect blend of justice and mercy. The city of refuge shields the innocent, the assembly ensures truth, and the high priest’s death guarantees final release. Taken literally for Israel and typologically for believers, the verse points to Jesus, our eternal refuge and High Priest, whose sacrifice secures full and lasting freedom. |
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