Deuteronomy 19:5

As when a man goeth into the wood with his neighbour to hew wood, and his hand fetcheth a stroke with the axe to cut down the tree, and the head slippeth from the helve, and lighteth upon his neighbour, that he die; he shall flee unto one of those cities, and live:

As when a man goeth {H935} into the wood {H3293} with his neighbour {H7453} to hew {H2404} wood {H6086}, and his hand {H3027} fetcheth a stroke {H5080} with the axe {H1631} to cut down {H3772} the tree {H6086}, and the head {H1270} slippeth {H5394} from the helve {H6086}, and lighteth {H4672} upon his neighbour {H7453}, that he die {H4191}; he shall flee {H5127} unto one {H259} of those cities {H5892}, and live {H2425}:

An example would be if a man goes into the forest with his neighbor to cut wood and takes a stroke with the axe to fell a tree, but the head of the axe flies off the handle, hits his neighbor and kills him. Then he is to flee to one of these cities and live there.

If he goes into the forest with his neighbor to cut timber and swings his axe to chop down a tree, but the blade flies off the handle and strikes and kills his neighbor, he may flee to one of these cities to save his life.

as when a man goeth into the forest with his neighbor to hew wood, and his hand fetcheth a stroke with the axe to cut down the tree, and the head slippeth from the helve, and lighteth upon his neighbor, so that he dieth; he shall flee unto one of these cities and live:

Commentary

Deuteronomy 19:5 provides a vivid illustration within the Mosaic Law, detailing a specific case of accidental death and the prescribed legal recourse. It highlights the divine emphasis on distinguishing between premeditated murder and unintentional killing, setting a precedent for justice tempered with mercy.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Deuteronomy (chapter 19) that establishes the laws concerning cities of refuge. These cities were designated safe havens for individuals who had unintentionally caused the death of another, protecting them from the "avenger of blood" (Numbers 35:19). The specific scenario of an axe head slipping during woodcutting is a common, relatable example of such an accident. The purpose of this system was to ensure justice without allowing revenge to escalate into further bloodshed, providing a fair trial and a place of safety until such a trial could occur or the high priest died (Numbers 35:25). This legal framework was crucial for maintaining order and preventing endless blood feuds in ancient Israelite society.

Key Themes

  • Justice and Mercy: The law balances the sanctity of human life with compassion for those who cause harm accidentally. It demands accountability but provides a way for the innocent to live, demonstrating God's character as both just and merciful.
  • Distinction of Intent: The core message is the critical difference between manslaughter (unintentional killing) and murder (intentional killing). God's law meticulously differentiates these, reflecting a profound understanding of human responsibility and culpability.
  • Provision of Refuge: The cities of refuge symbolize God's provision for protection and a place of safety for those in distress, even when they are indirectly responsible for a tragedy. This system offered a clear path to preservation of life, emphasizing the value of human life.

Linguistic Insights

The King James Version's phrase "head slippeth from the helve" is a clear and simple description of an axe head detaching from its handle during a forceful swing. This was a common and dangerous occurrence in ancient times when tools might not have been as securely manufactured or maintained. The vividness of the description emphasizes the unforeseen and accidental nature of the event, reinforcing that no malice or intent was involved on the part of the one wielding the axe.

Practical Application

This passage underscores the importance of a just legal system that carefully weighs intent and circumstances in cases of harm. It speaks to the need for due process and protection for those who commit unintentional wrongs, a principle that remains fundamental in modern legal systems.

Spiritually, the concept of a "city of refuge" can be seen as a powerful foreshadowing of God's provision for spiritual safety. Just as the one who accidentally killed could flee to a designated city and "live," so too can individuals find refuge from the consequences of sin and spiritual death by fleeing to Christ. He offers hope and spiritual refuge for all who come to Him, providing forgiveness and a new life. This verse reminds us to exercise caution and responsibility in all our actions, acknowledging that even unintentional acts can have severe consequences, while also trusting in divine mercy and provision for our ultimate safety.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Kings 6:5 (2 votes)

    But as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water: and he cried, and said, Alas, master! for it was borrowed.

  • 2 Kings 6:7 (2 votes)

    Therefore said he, Take [it] up to thee. And he put out his hand, and took it.

  • Proverbs 27:12 (2 votes)

    ¶ A prudent [man] foreseeth the evil, [and] hideth himself; [but] the simple pass on, [and] are punished.

  • Isaiah 32:2 (2 votes)

    And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.

  • Numbers 35:25 (2 votes)

    And the congregation shall deliver the slayer out of the hand of the revenger of blood, and the congregation shall restore him to the city of his refuge, whither he was fled: and he shall abide in it unto the death of the high priest, which was anointed with the holy oil.