“Then ye shall appoint you cities to be cities of refuge for you; that the slayer may flee thither, which killeth any person at unawares.”
This verse is part of a larger passage found in Numbers 35, which outlines the establishment of cities of refuge in ancient Israel. To understand the significance of Numbers 35:11, let’s provide some context.
In the preceding verses (Numbers 35:9-10), God commands the Israelites to designate cities of refuge throughout the land. These cities were intended to serve as places of sanctuary for individuals who had unintentionally caused the death of another person. The purpose of these cities was to provide a fair and just legal process, protecting those who had committed accidental manslaughter from being harmed by an avenger of blood-the family member of the deceased who sought retribution.
Numbers 35:11 specifically addresses the appointment of these cities as cities of refuge. The verse instructs the Israelites to establish these designated cities where individuals who had unintentionally taken someone’s life could seek safety. By doing so, it ensured that those who were responsible for accidental deaths would have a place to flee, find shelter, and receive a fair trial rather than facing immediate retribution.
The establishment of these cities of refuge in the Israelite society demonstrated God’s concern for justice and mercy. It acknowledged the inherent value of human life and sought to protect the unintentional offenders from swift vengeance. These cities served as a means to avoid blood feuds or vigilantism, allowing for a legal process to take place.
Beyond the immediate context of Numbers 35, the concept of cities of refuge also points to the broader theme of God’s justice and mercy throughout the Bible. It reflects God’s concern for righteousness and fairness in human relationships, as well as His desire for individuals to receive just treatment under the law.
Overall, Numbers 35:11 emphasizes the importance of establishing cities of refuge as places of safety and justice, where those who had unintentionally caused the death of another person could find protection until their case could be properly evaluated. This passage serves as a reminder of God’s concern for justice, mercy, and the value of every human life.
