1. et locutus est Dominus ad Josue dicens loquere filiis Israël et dic eis
2. separate urbes fugitivorum de quibus locutus sum ad vos per manum Mosi
3. ut confugiat ad eas quicumque animam percusserit nescius et possit evadere iram proximi qui ultor est sanguinis
4. cum ad unam harum confugerit civitatum stabitque ante portam civitatis et loquetur senioribus urbis illius ea quæ se conprobent innocentem sicque suscipient eum et dabunt ei locum ad habitandum
5. cumque ultor sanguinis eum fuerit persecutus non tradent in manus ejus quia ignorans percussit proximum ejus nec ante biduum triduumve ejus probatur inimicus
6. et habitabit in civitate illa donec stet ante judicium causam reddens facti sui et moriatur sacerdos magnus qui fuerit in illo tempore tunc revertetur homicida et ingredietur civitatem et domum suam de qua fugerat
7. decreveruntque Cedes in Galilea montis Nepthali et Sychem in monte Ephraim et Cariatharbe ipsa est Hebron in monte Juda
8. et trans Jordanem contra orientalem plagam Hiericho statuerunt Bosor quæ sita est in campestri solitudine de tribu Ruben et Ramoth in Galaad de tribu Gad et Gaulon in Basan de tribu Manasse
9. hæ civitates constitutæ sunt cunctis filiis Israël et advenis qui habitant inter eos ut fugeret ad eas qui animam nescius percussisset et non moreretur in manu proximi effusum sanguinem vindicare cupientis donec staret ante populum expositurus causam suam
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 Liber Iosue, 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)
