“And they appointed Kedesh in Galilee in mount Naphtali, and Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjath-arba, which is Hebron, in the mountain of Judah.”
In this verse, we find a description of the cities that were appointed as cities of refuge in the land of Canaan. To better understand its significance, let’s explore the context and the broader themes of this passage.
The book of Joshua is situated in the Old Testament and serves as a historical account of the Israelites’ conquest of the Promised Land under Joshua’s leadership, following the death of Moses. In Joshua 20, we encounter the establishment of cities of refuge, which were designated places for individuals who had unintentionally caused the death of another person to seek protection from retribution by the avenger of blood, who was typically a close relative seeking justice.
Now, let’s break down Joshua 20:7:
“And they appointed Kedesh in Galilee in mount Naphtali”: Kedesh was a city situated in the region of Galilee, within the territory of the tribe of Naphtali. This city was chosen as one of the places of refuge, providing a safe haven for those who needed it.
“and Shechem in mount Ephraim”: Shechem, located in the mountainous region of Ephraim, was another city designated as a refuge. It was positioned in the central part of the land and was accessible to various tribes.
“and Kirjatharba, which is Hebron, in the mountain of Judah”: Kirjatharba, also known as Hebron, was located in the mountainous region of Judah. This city was the third appointed city of refuge, providing protection for those residing in the southern part of the land.
The choice of these cities and their specific locations was strategic, aiming to make the cities of refuge accessible to various tribes, regardless of their geographical positions within the land of Canaan. This distribution ensured that individuals seeking asylum could find a nearby city without facing excessive travel difficulties.
The establishment of cities of refuge reflected God’s concern for justice and mercy. It demonstrated the importance of differentiating between intentional and unintentional acts that resulted in the loss of life. These cities provided a fair opportunity for the unintentional offenders to find refuge until a proper trial could take place, allowing the judicial system to operate justly and prevent hasty acts of vengeance.
By studying this verse and the context surrounding it, we can glean valuable insights into God’s desire for justice, fairness, and the protection of individuals within the community. The appointment of these cities emphasizes the importance of both justice and mercy, as they offered a means of refuge for those who needed it most.
