Joshua 21:21

KJV

For they gave them Shechem with her suburbs in mount Ephraim, [to be] a city of refuge for the slayer; and Gezer with her suburbs,

KJV (with Strong's)

For they gave {H5414} them Shechem {H7927} with her suburbs {H4054} in mount {H2022} Ephraim {H669}, to be a city {H5892} of refuge {H4733} for the slayer {H7523}; and Gezer {H1507} with her suburbs {H4054},

Complete Jewish Bible

they gave them: Sh'khem with its surrounding open land, in the hills of Efrayim, the city of refuge for the killer; Gezer with its surrounding open land;

Berean Standard Bible

From the tribe of Ephraim they were given Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim (a city of refuge for the manslayer), Gezer,

American Standard Version

And they gave them Shechem with its suburbs in the hill-country of Ephraim, the city of refuge for the manslayer, and Gezer with its suburbs,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 21:21 meticulously records a vital aspect of Israel's land distribution, highlighting God's faithful and detailed provision for the Levites. This verse specifically details the allocation of Shechem, located in the strategic Mount Ephraim, and Gezer, along with their associated pasturelands, to the Kohathite families of the tribe of Levi. Crucially, Shechem is designated as one of the six divinely appointed cities of refuge, underscoring the delicate balance of divine justice and mercy woven into Israel's legal system and ensuring the Levites' spiritual presence and accessibility throughout the nascent nation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 21:21 is situated within the climactic section of the Book of Joshua, specifically chapters 13-21, which meticulously document the fulfillment of God's promises regarding the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel after the successful military campaigns. Unlike the other tribes, the Levites, by divine decree, did not receive a territorial inheritance, as the Lord Himself was their portion and inheritance, as detailed in [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is the Levites' Inheritance"). Instead, God commanded that they be given 48 cities scattered strategically throughout the territories of the other tribes, along with their surrounding pasturelands for their livestock, a directive reiterated in [Joshua 21:2](/joshua/21-2 "Joshua 21:2 - Levites Request Cities"). Joshua 21 systematically lists these cities, organized by the three main Levitical families—Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites—demonstrating the precise execution of God's instructions and the cooperative obedience of the other tribes in providing for their priestly and teaching tribe.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The allocation of cities to the Levites, particularly the designation of Shechem as a "city of refuge," reflects significant historical and cultural norms of ancient Israel, rooted in divine law. The concept of cities of refuge was a unique, divinely instituted legal provision, first outlined in [Numbers 35](/numbers/35 "Numbers 35 - Cities of Refuge and Levites' Cities") and further elaborated in [Deuteronomy 19](/deuteronomy/19 "Deuteronomy 19 - Laws of Justice and Cities of Refuge"). These cities provided asylum for individuals who had accidentally caused another's death, protecting them from the "avenger of blood"—a family member legally permitted to exact retribution—until a fair trial could be held before the congregation. This system was crucial for preventing cycles of retaliatory violence and ensuring a due process of law. Shechem itself held profound historical significance, having been a site of Abraham's first altar in Canaan ([Genesis 12:6-7](/genesis/12-6-7 "Genesis 12:6-7 - Abraham's Altar at Shechem")), Jacob's settlement ([Genesis 33:18-20](/genesis/33-18-20 "Genesis 33:18-20 - Jacob Buys Land at Shechem")), and later, the place where Joshua renewed the covenant with all Israel ([Joshua 24:1-28](/joshua/24 "Joshua 24 - Joshua's Farewell Address and Covenant Renewal at Shechem")). Its strategic location in the central hill country of Mount Ephraim made it accessible and central to the nation. Gezer, though not a city of refuge, was a crucial strategic city, often contested due to its location on vital trade routes, and its allocation to the Levites further cemented their widespread presence and influence.
* **Key Themes:** Joshua 21:21 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Book of Joshua and the broader Old Testament narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Order and Provision**, showcasing God's meticulous planning for the settlement of His people and His unwavering faithfulness in providing for the Levites, even without a traditional land inheritance. Their needs were met through the obedience and generosity of the other tribes, ensuring their vital spiritual function. Secondly, the designation of Shechem as a "city of refuge" exemplifies the profound balance between **Justice and Mercy** embedded in God's law. While intentional murder was met with strict retribution, accidental killing was distinguished, offering a path for sanctuary and a fair legal process, preventing arbitrary vengeance and upholding the sanctity of life, as seen in [Deuteronomy 19:4](/deuteronomy/19-4 "Deuteronomy 19:4 - Law for Manslayers"). Finally, the scattering of Levitical cities throughout Israel, as seen with Shechem and Gezer, reinforces the **Centrality of Spiritual Leadership and Instruction**. By being dispersed among all tribes, the Levites, who were responsible for teaching God's law and administering justice, ensured that spiritual guidance and knowledge of the covenant were accessible to every part of the nation, fostering unity and adherence to God's commands, as outlined in [Deuteronomy 33:10](/deuteronomy/33-10 "Deuteronomy 33:10 - Levites Teach God's Laws").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Shechem (Hebrew, _Shᵉkem_):** This highly significant city in ancient Israel, located in the central hill country of Ephraim, derives its name from a root meaning "shoulder" or "back," likely referring to its geographical position on a ridge or saddle between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim. Shechem was a pivotal location for early Israelite history, serving as a site for Abraham's first altar, Jacob's settlement, covenant renewal under Joshua, and later, a major administrative center. Its allocation to the Levites underscores its importance as a center for spiritual and legal instruction within the land.
* **city of refuge (Hebrew, _ʿîyr miqlâṭ_):** This phrase literally translates to "city of asylum" or "city of reception." It denotes a specially consecrated urban center designed to provide safe haven for individuals who had unintentionally caused the death of another. The concept was a unique feature of Israelite law, distinguishing between premeditated murder and accidental homicide, thereby providing a legal framework that balanced the need for justice with the provision of mercy and protection from summary execution by the "avenger of blood."
* **suburbs (Hebrew, _migrâsh_):** This term refers to the open country or common lands surrounding the Levitical cities. These areas were explicitly designated for the Levites' livestock and agricultural needs, ensuring their economic sustenance. The inclusion of "suburbs" with each city highlights God's holistic provision for the Levites, not just a place to live, but also the necessary means to support themselves in their dedicated service to the Lord and the nation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For they gave them Shechem with her suburbs in mount Ephraim":** This clause signifies the direct fulfillment of the divine command for the other tribes to provide cities for the Levites. "They" refers to the tribes who had received their land inheritance, specifically the tribe of Ephraim in this instance, within whose territory Shechem was located. Shechem, a prominent city in the heart of Ephraimite territory, was allocated to the Kohathite Levites, along with its surrounding pasturelands, ensuring their livelihood and strategic placement within the land.
* **"[to be] a city of refuge for the slayer":** This parenthetical phrase, crucial to the verse's meaning, specifies one of the primary and most significant functions of Shechem. It was not merely a Levitical city but also one of the six designated cities of refuge throughout Israel. This designation highlights God's provision for justice and mercy within the legal system, offering a legal sanctuary for those who had accidentally caused a death, protecting them from immediate retribution until a fair trial could determine their guilt or innocence.
* **"and Gezer with her suburbs,":** This final clause lists the second city allocated in this specific verse to the Kohathite Levites. Gezer was another strategically important city, located on the border between Ephraim and Dan, controlling vital trade routes. Like Shechem, it came with its "suburbs" or pasturelands, ensuring the Levites' sustenance. Its inclusion further emphasizes the widespread distribution of the Levites, ensuring their spiritual and legal influence extended across different regions of Israel, not just concentrated in one area.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 21:21, though presenting a factual account of land distribution, employs several subtle yet significant literary devices. The **Repetition** of the phrase "with her suburbs" underscores the consistent and comprehensive nature of the provision for the Levites, emphasizing that their allocation included not just urban centers but also the necessary agricultural lands for their sustenance. The designation of Shechem as a "city of refuge" functions as a form of **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the broader legal and moral framework that would govern Israel's life in the land—a system balancing justice with grace. Furthermore, the very concept of a "city of refuge" itself serves as **Typology**. It is a type or shadow of a greater spiritual reality, pointing forward to the ultimate refuge found in Christ for those who are in danger of divine judgment, providing a place of safety and reconciliation. The meticulous listing of cities throughout Joshua 21 also contributes to the overall sense of **Order and Fulfillment**, demonstrating that God's promises and commands are systematically and faithfully brought to fruition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 21:21, in its precise detailing of land allocation, powerfully articulates God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises and His meticulous care for His people. The provision for the Levites, who had no territorial inheritance, demonstrates that God's economy operates on principles beyond mere land ownership; their inheritance was the Lord Himself, and their sustenance came through the generous obedience of the other tribes. This verse also underscores the divine balance between justice and mercy. The "city of refuge" system, exemplified by Shechem, reveals a God who is both just in requiring accountability for life and merciful in providing a path for sanctuary and due process for the unintentional slayer. This system served as a constant reminder to Israel of God's character and the importance of compassionate justice within their society, ensuring that the sanctity of life was upheld while also preventing cycles of blood vengeance.

* [Numbers 35:9-15](/numbers/35-9-15 "Numbers 35:9-15 - Law for Cities of Refuge")
* [Deuteronomy 4:41-43](/deuteronomy/4-41-43 "Deuteronomy 4:41-43 - Moses Sets Aside Cities of Refuge")
* [Hebrews 6:18](/hebrews/6-18 "Hebrews 6:18 - God's Unchangeable Purpose and Our Refuge in Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 21:21 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, reminding us of God's sovereign and detailed providence. Just as God meticulously planned the settlement of Israel and provided for the Levites' unique calling, we can trust in His precise care for our lives and vocations, knowing that He is faithful to meet our needs according to His purposes. The concept of the "city of refuge" challenges us to embody both justice and mercy in our communities and personal interactions. It calls us to create spaces of safety and reconciliation, where those who have erred, especially unintentionally, can find grace and a path to restoration rather than immediate condemnation. This means extending compassion, offering forgiveness, and advocating for fair processes. Furthermore, the dispersion of the Levites throughout the land for spiritual instruction highlights the importance of accessible spiritual leadership and the need for believers to be light and salt within their respective spheres of influence, bringing God's truth and compassion to bear on every aspect of society. We are called to be agents of God's order, provision, justice, and mercy in a world desperately needing them.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways do I see God's meticulous provision at work in my own life or in the life of my community today?**
* **How can I, or my local church, better embody the balance of justice and mercy, offering "refuge" and grace to those who stumble or err in our contemporary context?**
* **Considering the Levites' role in teaching and spiritual guidance, how can I better support and value those in spiritual leadership and instruction within my own community or church?**
* **Where do I personally find my "city of refuge" when I am overwhelmed by life's challenges, my own failings, or the accusations of others?**

### FAQ
**Why did the Levites not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes?**

Answer: The Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance because God Himself was designated as their inheritance, as powerfully declared in [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Levites' Inheritance"). Their unique and primary role was to serve the Lord in the tabernacle (and later the temple), ministering to Him and diligently teaching His laws and statutes to the people of Israel. Instead of land, God commanded that they be given 48 cities scattered strategically throughout the territories of the other tribes, along with surrounding pasturelands, to ensure their sustenance and to enable them to be accessible to all Israelites for spiritual guidance, legal counsel, and instruction in the covenant. This distinct arrangement underscored their consecrated calling and God's direct and faithful provision for their needs.

**What was the purpose of a "city of refuge" in ancient Israel?**

Answer: The "city of refuge" served a crucial legal, social, and theological function in ancient Israel. It was a divinely instituted sanctuary for individuals who had accidentally caused the death of another, providing immediate protection from the "avenger of blood" (a close relative of the deceased who had the legal right to exact retribution). The primary purpose was to prevent cycles of retaliatory violence and to ensure that a fair trial could be held before the community elders. If the slayer was found to have acted unintentionally, they could remain safely within the city of refuge until the death of the high priest ([Numbers 35:25](/numbers/35-25 "Numbers 35:25 - The Slayer's Stay in the City of Refuge")), after which they were permitted to return to their home. This system highlighted God's commitment to both justice and mercy, meticulously distinguishing between premeditated murder and accidental homicide, as detailed in [Deuteronomy 19:4-6](/deuteronomy/19-4-6 "Deuteronomy 19:4-6 - Law for Manslayers and Cities of Refuge").

**What is the significance of Shechem and Gezer being mentioned together in this verse?**

Answer: Shechem and Gezer are mentioned together in [Joshua 21:21](/joshua/21-21 "Joshua 21:21 - Shechem and Gezer Given to Levites") as cities allocated to the Kohathite Levites, each carrying its own distinct significance that contributes to the larger narrative of God's order and provision. Shechem was a historically and religiously prominent city, having been a site of early covenant interactions with Abraham and Jacob, and later, a crucial place for covenant renewal under Joshua ([Joshua 24](/joshua/24 "Joshua 24 - Joshua's Farewell Address and Covenant Renewal")). Its designation as a city of refuge further elevated its importance as a central hub for justice and spiritual instruction in the heart of Mount Ephraim. Gezer, on the other hand, was a strategically vital city, often contested due to its location on a key trade route and its strong fortifications. Its allocation to the Levites, like Shechem, ensured that the spiritual presence, legal counsel, and teaching ministry of the Levites were dispersed throughout critical and diverse areas of the land, reinforcing their indispensable role in the national life of Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 21:21, with its emphasis on Shechem as a "city of refuge," profoundly foreshadows the ultimate and perfect refuge found in Jesus Christ. Just as the ancient Israelite who unintentionally caused death could flee to a designated city for safety from the "avenger of blood," so too does humanity, inherently guilty of sin (whether intentional or unintentional in its full implications), find an eternal refuge in Christ from the righteous wrath and judgment of God. The Old Testament law, with its temporary and conditional sanctuary, pointed to a greater reality; Christ, however, offers a perfect, complete, and eternal haven. He is our true and living "city of refuge," the one to whom we can flee for forgiveness, reconciliation, and protection from condemnation ([Romans 8:1](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1 - No Condemnation in Christ Jesus")). His atoning sacrifice on the cross, as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), provides the ultimate legal and spiritual provision, granting us redemption and the forgiveness of sins, delivering us from the dominion of darkness into His glorious kingdom ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Redemption Through Christ's Blood")). In Christ, we find not just a temporary reprieve but an eternal dwelling place, a sure and steadfast anchor for our souls, a hope that enters beyond the veil into the very presence of God ([Hebrews 6:18-19](/hebrews/6-18-19 "Hebrews 6:18-19 - Our Sure Hope in Christ")). He is the embodiment of divine justice satisfied and divine mercy extended, offering a permanent sanctuary for all who believe and run to Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Joshua 20:7

¶ And they appointed Kedesh in Galilee in mount Naphtali, and Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjatharba, which [is] Hebron, in the mountain of Judah.

1 Kings 9:15

¶ And this [is] the reason of the levy which king Solomon raised; for to build the house of the LORD, and his own house, and Millo, and the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, and Megiddo, and Gezer.

1 Kings 9:17

And Solomon built Gezer, and Bethhoron the nether,

Genesis 33:19

And he bought a parcel of a field, where he had spread his tent, at the hand of the children of Hamor, Shechem's father, for an hundred pieces of money.

Joshua 16:10

And they drave not out the Canaanites that dwelt in Gezer: but the Canaanites dwell among the Ephraimites unto this day, and serve under tribute.

Judges 9:1

¶ And Abimelech the son of Jerubbaal went to Shechem unto his mother's brethren, and communed with them, and with all the family of the house of his mother's father, saying,

1 Kings 12:1

¶ And Rehoboam went to Shechem: for all Israel were come to Shechem to make him king.