Numbers 35:27

and the avenger of blood finds him outside of his city of refuge and kills him, then the avenger will not be guilty of bloodshed

Study Bible

and the avenger of blood finds him outside of his city of refuge
In ancient Israel, the concept of the "avenger of blood" (Hebrew: go'el ha-dam) was a legal provision allowing a family member to avenge the death of a relative. This practice was rooted in the cultural and legal systems of the time, where family honor and justice were paramount. The "city of refuge" was a divinely instituted place where someone who had accidentally killed another could seek asylum to avoid immediate retribution. These cities were strategically located throughout Israel to be accessible to all, as outlined in Numbers 35:6-15. The requirement for the manslayer to remain within the city underscores the balance between justice and mercy in God's law. The avenger finding the manslayer outside the city indicates a breach of the protective provision, thus allowing the avenger to act without legal consequence.

and kills him
The act of killing the manslayer outside the city of refuge was considered a fulfillment of justice rather than murder. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of justice, where blood vengeance was a recognized means of maintaining social order. The cities of refuge served as a temporary protection until the high priest's death, symbolizing a form of atonement and release from guilt. The manslayer's departure from the city was seen as a forfeiture of divine protection, making the act of killing him a lawful execution of justice rather than an unlawful act of murder.

then the avenger will not be guilty of bloodshed
This phrase emphasizes the legal and moral exoneration of the avenger. In the context of the Mosaic Law, the avenger's actions were justified if the manslayer left the city of refuge. This provision highlights the importance of adhering to God's commandments and the consequences of failing to do so. Theologically, it underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement, pointing forward to the ultimate atonement provided by Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus is seen as our refuge (Hebrews 6:18), offering protection and forgiveness for those who seek Him. The avenger's lack of guilt also reflects the principle that justice, when carried out according to God's law, is righteous and blameless.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Avenger of Blood
A family member responsible for avenging the death of a relative. This role was part of the ancient justice system in Israel, where the nearest kin had the duty to ensure justice for the deceased.

2. Manslayer
An individual who has killed another person unintentionally. In the context of Numbers 35, this person seeks refuge to avoid retribution from the avenger of blood.

3. City of Refuge
Designated cities where someone who committed unintentional manslaughter could flee for safety. These cities provided protection until a fair trial could be conducted.

4. Outside the City of Refuge
The area beyond the boundaries of the city of refuge, where the manslayer was vulnerable to the avenger of blood.

5. Bloodshed
The act of killing, which in this context, refers to the avenger of blood killing the manslayer if found outside the city of refuge.

Teaching Points

God’s Justice and Mercy
The cities of refuge illustrate God’s balance of justice and mercy. While justice is served through the avenger of blood, mercy is extended to the manslayer through the provision of refuge.

The Importance of Boundaries
The manslayer’s safety depended on staying within the city of refuge. This teaches the importance of respecting boundaries set by God for our protection.

Christ as Our Refuge
Just as the cities of refuge provided safety, Christ is our ultimate refuge. Believers find safety and forgiveness in Him, emphasizing the need to remain in Christ.

Community Responsibility
The role of the avenger of blood highlights the community’s responsibility in upholding justice. Similarly, believers are called to uphold justice and mercy within their communities.

Consequences of Actions
The manslayer’s vulnerability outside the city of refuge serves as a reminder of the consequences of stepping outside God’s provision and protection.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways can we see Christ as our city of refuge in today’s world?

3. What are some modern-day "boundaries" that God has set for our protection, and how can we ensure we stay within them?

4. How can we, as a community of believers, balance justice and mercy in our interactions with others?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God’s protection. How did staying within His "boundaries" provide safety and peace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 20
This chapter provides further details on the cities of refuge, their purpose, and the process for seeking asylum within them.

Deuteronomy 19
Offers additional laws concerning cities of refuge and the distinction between intentional and unintentional killing.

Hebrews 6:18
Discusses the concept of refuge in a spiritual sense, where believers find refuge in God’s promises, drawing a parallel to the cities of refuge.