1. kai elalhsen kurioV tw ihsoi legwn
2. lalhson toiV uioiV israhl legwn dote taV poleiV twn fugadeuthriwn aV eipa proV umaV dia mwush
3. fugadeuthrion tw foneuth tw pataxanti yuchn akousiwV kai esontai umin ai poleiV fugadeuthrion kai ouk apoqaneitai o foneuthV upo tou agcisteuontoV to aima ewV an katasth enantion thV sunagwghV eiV krisin
7. kai diesteilen thn kadhV en th galilaia en tw orei tw nefqali kai sucem en tw orei tw efraim kai thn polin arbok auth estin cebrwn en tw orei tw iouda
8. kai en tw peran tou iordanou edwken bosor en th erhmw en tw pediw apo thV fulhV roubhn kai arhmwq en th galaad ek thV fulhV gad kai thn gaulwn en th basanitidi ek thV fulhV manassh
9. autai ai poleiV ai epiklhtoi toiV uioiV israhl kai tw proshlutw tw proskeimenw en autoiV katafugein ekei panti paionti yuchn akousiwV ina mh apoqanh en ceiri tou agcisteuontoV to aima ewV an katasth enanti thV sunagwghV eiV krisin
Footnotes:
20:1-3 - God commands the creation of cities of refuge, reflecting His concern for justice and the protection of the innocent. These cities exemplify God's love for life and justice (see also Numbers 35:9-15 and Deuteronomy 19:2-4).
20:4-6 - The process of seeking refuge in a city of refuge reveals the importance of repentance and seeking mercy. The narrative emphasizes the possibility of restoration and redemption, even in difficult situations (see also Psalm 51:1-2 and 1 John 1:9).
20:7-8 - The designation of cities of refuge among the tribes illustrates God's mercy in the midst of judgment. These cities are a symbol of hope and God's plan for the protection of the vulnerable (see also Psalm 46:1 and Isaiah 25:4).
20:9 - The protection afforded in the cities of refuge emphasizes the value of life and God's justice. This system reflects God's wisdom in caring for His people and ensuring that justice is served (see also Proverbs 21:15 and Micah 6:8).
20:10-15 - The provision of cities of refuge as a safe place reflects God's intention to offer protection and refuge in times of crisis. This concept is central to the experience of salvation and deliverance throughout the Bible (see also Psalm 91:1-2 and Matthew 11:28-30).
Verses related to Josué, 20:
Joshua chapter 20 establishes the cities of refuge. How does God balance justice and mercy? This crucial text describes the designation of six cities where those accused of involuntary manslaughter could seek protection. The chapter addresses themes of justice, mercy, divine protection, and the importance of fair legal systems. Joshua 20 also illustrates God's care for the vulnerable. Ponder with us five Bible passages that relate to the compassionate themes of this eye-opening chapter.
Numbers 35:6: "Six of the cities you give to the Levites will be cities of refuge, where anyone who has killed anyone can flee." - This verse provides the context for the establishment of the cities of refuge described in Joshua 20.
Deuteronomy 19:3: "Prepare some roads and divide the territory of the land that the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance into three parts, so that anyone who kills anyone can flee there." - This passage complements the instructions for establishing cities of refuge described in Joshua 20.
1 Chronicles 6:67: "They gave them the following cities of refuge: Shechem with its pastures in the mountains of Ephraim, Gezer with its pastures," - This verse lists some of the cities of refuge mentioned in Joshua 20 in the context of the distribution of the Levitical cities.
Psalms 46:1: "God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in adversity." - Although it does not directly mention cities of refuge, this psalm reflects the concept of God as refuge, which is behind the institution described in Joshua 20.
Hebrews 6:18: "God did this so that, by two immutable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who take refuge in him may be strongly encouraged to take hold of the hope set before us." - This New Testament passage uses the language of "refuge," echoing the concept of cities of refuge established in Joshua 20, applying it to hope in Christ.
FAQ:
What are cities of refuge in Joshua 20?
Cities of refuge were designated places where someone who committed accidental homicide could seek protection until the case was tried. (Joshua 20:2-3)
How were cities of refuge chosen?
Cities of refuge were chosen from among the tribes and distributed throughout the region to ensure easy access for all. (Joshua 20:7)
Who could take refuge in the designated cities?
Anyone who accidentally killed someone could seek refuge in the cities to protect himself from the vengeance of the victim’s relative. (Joshua 20:9)
What was the main purpose of the cities of refuge?
The purpose was to provide a safe place for those who committed unintentional homicide, preventing revenge and promoting justice. (Joshua 20:2-3)
What happened to the city of Hebron?
Hebron was one of the cities of refuge and also a Levitical city, given importance by its location and role in the justice system. (Joshua 20:7)
