Deuteronomy 19:7

Deuteronomy 19:7 is a specific command given by Moses to the Israelites regarding the establishment of a unique legal and social institution: the Cities of Refuge. This verse underscores God's meticulous provision for a just and merciful society, even in cases of accidental death.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in the Book of Deuteronomy (chapters 19-25) that details various laws and statutes for the nation of Israel as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. Specifically, it follows a foundational command concerning the Cities of Refuge, first introduced in Numbers 35. The purpose of these cities was to provide asylum for individuals who had unintentionally killed another person (manslaughter), protecting them from the immediate retribution of the "avenger of blood" (a kinsman of the deceased who had the right to exact vengeance). Deuteronomy 19:1-6 sets the stage by explaining the necessity for such a system, differentiating between premeditated murder and accidental death. Verse 7 specifically commands the separation of three cities on the west side of the Jordan River, complementing the three already designated on the east side by Moses (see Deuteronomy 4:41-43), with the promise of three more to be added upon territorial expansion (as detailed in Deuteronomy 19:8-9).

Key Themes

• Divine Justice and Mercy: God's law provides a framework that balances justice for the victim with mercy for the unintentional slayer. It prevents chaotic vigilantism and ensures a form of due process.
• Distinction of Intent: The command highlights a crucial legal principle: the difference between premeditated murder and accidental killing. This distinction is foundational to a fair legal system.
• Provision and Accessibility: The instruction to "separate" these cities implies they were to be clearly designated and easily accessible, ensuring that those in need of refuge could reach them quickly and safely.
• Sanctuary and Protection: The Cities of Refuge served as literal places of asylum, offering temporary safety from immediate retribution until a fair trial could be held before the elders.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "separate" is `badal` (בדל), which means to divide, distinguish, or set apart. This emphasizes that these cities were not ordinary towns but were specifically designated and consecrated for their unique purpose within the legal system. The concept of the "avenger of blood" (`go'el haddam` - גאל הדם) is also crucial, referring to the nearest male relative responsible for upholding family honor and justice, including avenging a wrongful death.

Practical Application

The command in Deuteronomy 19:7 offers timeless insights:

• Value of Human Life: The detailed laws surrounding the Cities of Refuge underscore the immense value God places on human life, protecting both the victim through justice and the unintentional killer through mercy and due process.
• Importance of Due Process: This ancient legal system prefigures the modern concept of fair trial and protection against immediate, uncontrolled retaliation, emphasizing that legal systems should be just and orderly.
• God's Provision for Refuge: Spiritually, the Cities of Refuge can be seen as a powerful type or shadow of God's ultimate provision of refuge in Jesus Christ. Just as the slayer fled to a city for safety, humanity can find forgiveness and escape the penalty of sin by taking refuge in Christ, as highlighted in Hebrews 6:18, which speaks of those who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before them.