Topical Encyclopedia Blood-revenge, also known as the avenging of blood, is a concept deeply rooted in the ancient Near Eastern culture and is addressed in the Old Testament. It refers to the practice of a family member seeking retribution for the unlawful killing of a relative. This practice is closely tied to the principle of justice and the sanctity of life as ordained by God.Biblical Foundation The concept of blood-revenge is primarily found in the Pentateuch, where it is addressed within the context of the Mosaic Law. The principle is first introduced in Genesis 9:6, where God declares, "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in His own image God has made mankind." This establishes the divine mandate for justice in cases of murder, underscoring the value of human life created in God's image. Cities of Refuge To regulate the practice of blood-revenge and prevent the cycle of violence, God instituted cities of refuge. These cities provided asylum for individuals who committed manslaughter unintentionally. Numbers 35:11-12 states, "Select for yourselves cities to serve as your cities of refuge, so that a manslayer who kills someone unintentionally may flee there. These cities will be a refuge from the avenger, so that the manslayer will not die until he stands trial before the assembly." The cities of refuge served as a protective measure, ensuring that justice was served while preventing the escalation of blood feuds. The accused could remain in the city until the death of the high priest, after which they could return home without fear of retribution (Numbers 35:25-28). Role of the Avenger of Blood The avenger of blood, typically the nearest male relative of the deceased, had the responsibility to execute justice by pursuing the murderer. This role is outlined in Deuteronomy 19:12, "Then the elders of his city shall send for him, take him from there, and deliver him into the hand of the avenger of blood to die." The avenger acted as an agent of divine justice, ensuring that the sanctity of life was upheld. Distinction Between Murder and Manslaughter The Mosaic Law makes a clear distinction between premeditated murder and accidental killing. Exodus 21:12-14 provides guidelines for this differentiation: "Whoever strikes and kills a man must surely be put to death. But if he did not intend any harm, and yet God allowed it to happen, I will appoint a place for you where he may flee. But if a man schemes and acts willfully against his neighbor to kill him, you must take him from My altar to be put to death." This distinction was crucial in determining the appropriate response and ensuring that justice was tempered with mercy. Theological Implications Blood-revenge reflects the biblical principle of justice and the seriousness with which God views the shedding of innocent blood. It underscores the belief that life is sacred and that God is the ultimate judge who demands accountability for wrongdoing. The provision of cities of refuge illustrates God's mercy and His desire to protect the innocent while upholding justice. In the New Testament, the concept of blood-revenge is transformed through the teachings of Jesus Christ, who emphasizes forgiveness and reconciliation. The ultimate act of blood-revenge is fulfilled in Christ's sacrificial death, which atones for sin and offers redemption to all who believe. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BLOOD-REVENGEblud-re-venj': Library The Deceitfulness of the Human Heart Christian Meekness Chapter ix The Criminal and his Relation to Society. The American Church on the Eve of the Great Awakening --A General ... Thesaurus BloodrevengeBloodrevenge. Blood-red, Bloodrevenge. Blood-revenge . Int. ... blud-re-venj': See AVENGER. Blood-red, Bloodrevenge. Blood-revenge . Reference Bible. /b/bloodrevenge.htm - 6k Blood-revenge Bloodshed (43 Occurrences) Goel Blood-red (1 Occurrence) Avenger (18 Occurrences) Asahel (17 Occurrences) Avenge (27 Occurrences) Absalom (93 Occurrences) Cain (18 Occurrences) Resources What is an avenger of blood in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the law of retribution? | GotQuestions.org Summary of the Book of Leviticus - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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