Cities of Refuge

The concept of Cities of Refuge is rooted in the Mosaic Law, serving as a divine provision for justice and mercy. These cities were established to protect individuals who had committed unintentional manslaughter, allowing them a safe haven from the avenger of blood until a fair trial could be conducted. The institution of these cities underscores the value God places on both justice and compassion.

The biblical mandate for Cities of Refuge is found in several passages, including Numbers 35, Deuteronomy 19, and Joshua 20. According to Numbers 35:6 , "Six of the towns you give the Levites will be cities of refuge, where a person who has killed someone may flee." These cities were strategically located throughout the land of Israel to ensure accessibility for all, as described in Joshua 20:7-8 : "So they set apart Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country of Naphtali, Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim, and Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the hill country of Judah. And beyond the Jordan east of Jericho, they designated Bezer in the wilderness on the plateau from the tribe of Reuben, Ramoth in Gilead from the tribe of Gad, and Golan in Bashan from the tribe of Manasseh."

Theologically, the Cities of Refuge symbolize God's provision for redemption and protection. They foreshadow the ultimate refuge found in Christ, who offers safety and forgiveness to all who seek Him. The requirement for the manslayer to remain in the city until the death of the high priest (Numbers 35:25) further illustrates the connection between atonement and refuge, as the high priest's death signified the release and freedom of the individual.

Pasturelands

Pasturelands, as described in the Old Testament, were designated areas surrounding the Levitical cities, intended to provide for the needs of the Levites and their livestock. These lands were a vital part of the Levitical inheritance, as the tribe of Levi did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, their inheritance was the Lord Himself and the service of the tabernacle.

Numbers 35:2-3 outlines the provision for these lands: "Command the Israelites to give the Levites cities to live in from the inheritance the Israelites will possess. And you are also to give the Levites pasturelands around the cities. The cities will be theirs to live in, and the pasturelands will be for their cattle, flocks, and all their other livestock." The pasturelands extended 1,000 cubits from the city walls, providing ample space for grazing and agricultural activities.

The allocation of pasturelands highlights the importance of supporting those dedicated to spiritual service. It reflects the communal responsibility of the Israelites to care for the Levites, who in turn ministered to the people and maintained the worship of Yahweh. This provision ensured that the Levites could focus on their priestly duties without the distraction of securing their own sustenance.

In a broader theological context, the pasturelands can be seen as a symbol of God's provision and care for His people. Just as the Levites were provided for through the contributions of the other tribes, believers are called to support those who labor in ministry, recognizing the mutual dependence within the body of Christ.