1 The LORD also spake unto Joshua, saying,
2 Speak to the children of Israel, saying, Appoint out for you cities of refuge, whereof I spake unto you by the hand of Moses:
3 That the slayer that killeth [any] person unawares [and] unwittingly may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood.
4 And when he that doth flee unto one of those cities shall stand at the entering of the gate of the city, and shall declare his cause in the ears of the elders of that city, they shall take him into the city unto them, and give him a place, that he may dwell among them.
5 And if the avenger of blood pursue after him, then they shall not deliver the slayer up into his hand; because he smote his neighbour unwittingly, and hated him not beforetime.
6 And he shall dwell in that city, until he stand before the congregation for judgment, [and] until the death of the high priest that shall be in those days: then shall the slayer return, and come unto his own city, and unto his own house, unto the city from whence he fled.
7 And they appointed Kedesh in Galilee in mount Naphtali, and Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjatharba, which [is] Hebron, in the mountain of Judah.
8 And on the other side Jordan by Jericho eastward, they assigned Bezer in the wilderness upon the plain out of the tribe of Reuben, and Ramoth in Gilead out of the tribe of Gad, and Golan in Bashan out of the tribe of Manasseh.
9 These were the cities appointed for all the children of Israel, and for the stranger that sojourneth among them, that whosoever killeth [any] person at unawares might flee thither, and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood, until he stood before the congregation.
Overview of Joshua Chapter 20
Joshua Chapter 20 outlines the establishment of cities of refuge for individuals who unintentionally commit manslaughter. This chapter emphasizes the importance of justice, mercy, and the distinction between intentional and unintentional acts. It reflects the legal and moral framework of ancient Israelite society.
Key Themes
- Justice and Mercy: The chapter illustrates the balance between justice and mercy in the legal system.
- Protection for the Innocent: It provides a means of protection for those who commit unintentional harm.
- Divine Command: The establishment of cities of refuge is presented as a command from God, highlighting the divine authority behind the laws.
Structure of the Chapter
- God’s Command to Joshua (Verses 1-3):
God instructs Joshua to designate cities of refuge where individuals who kill someone unintentionally can flee for safety.
- Definition of Unintentional Killing (Verses 4-6):
The chapter clarifies that these cities are for those who have not acted with malice or premeditation, providing a clear distinction between murder and manslaughter.
- Listing of the Cities of Refuge (Verses 7-8):
The chapter specifies the cities designated as places of refuge: Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan.
- Role of the Cities (Verse 9):
It concludes by stating that these cities serve as a refuge for the Israelites and the sojourners among them, ensuring that justice is served without the risk of blood vengeance.
Significance of the Cities of Refuge
The cities of refuge serve multiple purposes in the context of Israelite society:
- Legal Protection: They provide a legal mechanism to protect individuals from revenge killings.
- Social Stability: By allowing for a fair trial and preventing blood feuds, these cities contribute to social order.
- Symbol of Divine Justice: The cities represent God’s provision for justice and mercy, reflecting His character and the moral order He desires for His people.
Conclusion
Joshua Chapter 20 is a critical passage that highlights the importance of justice tempered with mercy in the Israelite legal system. The cities of refuge not only serve as a sanctuary for those who have committed unintentional acts but also reinforce the broader principles of fairness and protection within the community. This chapter invites reflection on the nature of justice and the responsibilities of individuals within a society.
