Numbers 35:13

Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

فَالمُدُنُ الَّتِي تَخْتَارُونَهَا سَتَكُونُ مُدُنَ لُجُوءٍ لَكُمْ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse in Numbers tells us that out of the cities given, six of them should be set aside as cities of refuge. God is speaking through Moses, indicating a place where someone who accidentally caused a death could seek safety from avengers.

Explained for Children

Imagine you accidentally break something very important, and someone might be very angry at you. To keep you safe from that anger, there are special houses where you can go. This verse talks about six of these special safe houses.

Historical Background

Numbers was written by Moses around 1400 BCE, detailing the laws and instructions given to the Israelites. This verse fits into the broader theme of establishing safe places in a society where accidental deaths could lead to dangerous confrontations.

Living It Out Today

In today's context, this verse reminds us to establish safe spaces where people can go to avoid harsh judgments, much like how a school might have a guidance counselor's office where students can seek refuge from bullying.

Topics

• refuge
• justice
• safety
• forgiveness
• community
• law

Related Verses

• Exodus 21:13
• Joshua 20:2
• Deuteronomy 19:2
• Psalm 56:13
• Hebrews 6:18

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of cities of refuge in biblical times?

Cities of refuge were designated areas where someone who had accidentally caused a death could find safety from vengeance, providing a way to avoid unjust retaliation and seek fair judgment.

How do we know there were six cities of refuge?

The verse in Numbers 35:13 specifically states that six cities out of the given cities were to be set aside as cities of refuge, clearly indicating the number.

Can this verse be applied to modern legal systems?

While the context is ancient, the concept of providing safe spaces for those who need protection from unjust judgment can inspire modern legal and social policies aimed at fairness and justice.

What other books in the Bible talk about cities of refuge?

Joshua 20 and Deuteronomy 19 also discuss the cities of refuge, providing more details on their establishment and the rules surrounding them.