Topical Encyclopedia The concept of cities of refuge is rooted in the Mosaic Law, serving as a divine provision for justice and mercy. These cities were designated places where individuals who had committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum from the avenger of blood, ensuring a fair trial and protection until due process was observed. The establishment of these cities underscores the balance between justice and compassion in the biblical legal system.Biblical Foundation The cities of refuge are first mentioned in the Book of Exodus and further detailed in Numbers, Deuteronomy, and Joshua. The primary purpose was to provide a safe haven for those who accidentally caused the death of another, distinguishing between premeditated murder and accidental killing. The Berean Standard Bible provides clarity on this provision: · Exodus 21:13 : "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." · Numbers 35:11-12 : "Select for yourselves cities to be 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." Designation of Cities The cities of refuge were strategically located throughout the land of Israel to be accessible to all. According to the biblical record, six cities were appointed: 1. Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country of Naphtali 2. Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim 3. Hebron (also known as Kiriath Arba) in the hill country of Judah 4. Bezer in the wilderness on the plateau in the tribe of Reuben 5. Ramoth in Gilead in the tribe of Gad 6. Golan in Bashan in the tribe of Manasseh These cities are listed 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 across 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." Function and Operation The cities of refuge functioned under specific guidelines. Upon reaching a city, the fugitive was to present his case to the elders at the city gate. If accepted, he was granted asylum until a trial could be conducted. The trial determined whether the killing was accidental or intentional. If deemed accidental, the individual was to remain in the city until the death of the high priest, after which he could return home without fear of retribution (Numbers 35:25-28). Theological Significance Theologically, the cities of refuge illustrate God's provision for justice tempered with mercy. They reflect the sanctity of life and the importance of intent in moral and legal judgments. The cities also prefigure the ultimate refuge found in Christ, who offers spiritual asylum and redemption for all who seek Him. The concept of refuge is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, symbolizing God's protection and grace for those in need. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 20:7-9And they appointed Kedesh in Galilee in mount Naphtali, and Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjatharba, which is Hebron, in the mountain of Judah. Nave's Topical Index Library Six Cities Deuteronomy. Numbers. Joshua. Joshua's Conquest. From Kadesh to the Death of Moses. The City and River of God The Old Testament and Archeology Johann Valentin Andrea Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House ... Resources How is God our refuge? | GotQuestions.orgWhat were the cities of refuge in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean God is our refuge and strength and an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1)? | GotQuestions.org Refuge: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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