Deuteronomy 19:9
(If thou shalt keepe all these commandements to doe them, which I command thee this day, to loue the Lord thy God, and to walke euer in his wayes) then shalt thou adde three cities moe for thee, beside these three: Deuteronomy 19:9 (KJV)
Deuteronomy 19:9 is situated within Moses’ farewell address to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The chapter introduces the institution of cities of refuge, designated places where a person who has unintentionally caused death could seek protection from the avengers of blood. Verses 1‑8 command the establishment of three such cities within the land that Israel is about to inherit. Verse 9 adds a conditional promise: if the people faithfully keep all the commandments, love the LORD their God, and walk continually in His ways, God will enable them to add three additional cities beyond the original three. This promise highlights the direct link between obedience and divine blessing, showing that faithfulness expands the system of refuge for the community.
Historical records confirm that six cities of refuge were ultimately set up—three on the east side of the Jordan River and three on the west—as recorded in Joshua 20. While the verse itself focuses on the conditional addition of cities, the broader chapter emphasizes procedural care for those who have unintentionally caused death, ensuring they receive protection while awaiting justice. The passage therefore underscores both the legal protections afforded to the vulnerable and the moral responsibility of the community to uphold them.
For contemporary believers, Deuteronomy 19:9 serves as a reminder that obedience to God’s commands brings tangible provision and blessing. It calls us to love the LORD, walk in His ways, and respect the structures of justice that safeguard the innocent. In today’s context, the study invites us to honor legal protections, extend compassion to those in vulnerable situations, and recognize that faithful adherence to God’s law yields communal benefit and divine favor.
