“As when a man goeth into the wood with his neighbour to hew wood, and his hand fetcheth a stroke with the axe to cut down the tree, and the head slippeth from the helve, and lighteth upon his neighbour, that he die; he shall flee unto one of those cities, and live: Deuteronomy 19:5 (KJV)”
This verse is part of the larger context of laws and instructions given by Moses to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In this particular verse, Moses is speaking about the provision of cities of refuge for someone who unintentionally causes the death of another person.
Context:The cities of refuge were designated cities where individuals who unintentionally caused the death of another person could find protection from revenge or retribution. These cities were established to ensure justice and prevent the shedding of innocent blood.
Unintentional Killing:The scenario described in this verse involves a person who is cutting down a tree with an axe. Accidentally, the head of the axe slips from the handle (helve) and strikes and kills the person’s neighbor. The death is unintentional, resulting from a tragic accident.
Cities of Refuge:In ancient Israel, six cities were set apart as cities of refuge: Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan. These cities were strategically located throughout the land, ensuring that they were accessible to the people. The purpose of these cities was to provide a safe haven for those who had accidentally caused the death of another, allowing them to escape immediate vengeance and receive a fair trial.
Fleeing for Safety:According to the verse, the person responsible for the accidental death should flee to one of the cities of refuge and seek shelter there. By doing so, they could find protection from the avenger of blood, who might seek to avenge the death by taking the life of the unintentional offender. The cities of refuge served as places of safety until the case could be brought before the congregation for judgment.
This verse emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between intentional and unintentional acts resulting in the loss of life. It highlights the value placed on justice and the need to provide a fair opportunity for the unintentional offender to seek refuge and receive a proper hearing.
The concept of cities of refuge in the Old Testament serves as a precursor to the principles of justice and mercy that are further developed in the New Testament. It provides a glimpse into the heart of God, who desires justice tempered with compassion and mercy even in situations of unintended harm.
