Deuteronomy 19:3
Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)
يَنْبَغِي أنْ تَحْسِبُوا المَسَافَاتِ وَتُقَسِّمُوا الأرْضَ الَّتِي يُعْطِيهَا لَكُمْ إلَى ثَلَاثَةِ أقسَامٍ، لِيَهْرُبَ إلَى هُنَاكَ كُلُّ قَاتِلٍ.
What Does This Mean?
This verse from Deuteronomy instructs the Israelites to create safe places, called cities of refuge, by dividing their land into three parts. Moses is speaking to the Israelites, explaining that this will allow anyone who has accidentally killed someone to find safety and justice, rather than being immediately punished by the victim's family.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing a game where you have to run to a safe spot if you accidentally bump into someone. Moses is saying to set up three safe spots in the land so anyone who accidentally hurts someone can run there and be safe until they can explain what happened.
Historical Background
Moses spoke these words around 1250 BCE to the Israelites who were about to enter the Promised Land. This was during a time when family members could seek revenge for a death, so setting up these cities was a way to ensure fairness and protection for those who were not guilty of intentional murder.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, this verse can remind us to create and seek out fair and safe environments where people can be heard and judged fairly. For example, in a workplace, it might mean setting up procedures for reporting and resolving conflicts without immediate punishment.
Topics
justiceprotectionaccidentalcities of refugefairnesssafety
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did they divide the land into three parts?
Dividing the land into three parts ensured that no matter where someone was in the land, they would be within a reasonable distance to a city of refuge, providing a fair chance for anyone who accidentally caused death to find safety and justice.
Who could use these cities of refuge?
Anyone who accidentally caused another person's death could flee to these cities. These cities were designed to protect individuals from potential vigilante justice or revenge killings.
What would happen if someone fled to a city of refuge?
Once in the city of refuge, the person would be given a trial to determine if the death was accidental or intentional. If it was accidental, they could stay in the city until the high priest died, after which they could return home safely.
How does this relate to justice today?
This verse emphasizes the importance of fair trials and protecting the innocent. It reminds us to ensure that justice systems provide a fair process for all, especially in situations where emotions run high, like accidental deaths.