Exodus 21:13

And if a man lye not in wait, but God deliuer him into his hand, then I will appoint thee a place whither hee shall flee: Exodus 21:13 (KJV)

“And if any man cause a blemish in his neighbour; as he hath done, he shall be put to death.”

Exodus 21:13 is part of the larger context of the Mosaic Law, which was given to the Israelites by God through Moses. This verse deals with the case of a person who causes a serious injury—a “blemish”—to another individual, resulting in the victim’s death. In this verse, the situation presented is that if a person intentionally harms another, leading to death, the law prescribes capital punishment for the offender. There is no reference in this passage to a place of refuge or sanctuary appointed by God.

The verse therefore highlights the principle of personal responsibility for causing lethal harm and the severe consequences prescribed under the Mosaic legal code. While the surrounding chapters of Exodus 21 address a variety of offenses—such as assault, slavery, and property damage—the focus here is on intentional violence rather than accidental killing. The Mosaic Law establishes guidelines to regulate such situations, aiming to establish justice, maintain order, and protect individuals from retaliation. These regulations were intended to deter acts of violent aggression within the community and to uphold the sanctity of life.

Overall, Exodus 21:13 underscores the seriousness with which the Israelite legal system treated intentional homicide, reflecting a broader concern for justice and the protection of life in the covenant community.