Old Testament
Joshua 20:7
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They designated Kedesh in Galilee in mount Naphtali, Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjatharba, which is Hebron, in the mountain of Judah.
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And they appointed Kedesh in Galilee in mount Naphtali, and Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjatharba, which is Hebron, in the mountain of Judah.
What Joshua 20:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Israelites are establishing cities of refuge, which are designated places where someone who accidentally killed another person could flee for safety. The cities mentioned are Kedesh in Galilee, Shechem in Ephraim, and Kirjatharba (Hebron) in Judah. These locations were strategically chosen to provide accessible refuge across different regions of Israel. The cities of refuge were part of God's law to ensure justice and mercy, allowing individuals to escape revenge from the victim's family while awaiting a fair trial. This system reflects the importance of justice and protection in the community, emphasizing that even in cases of unintentional harm, there is a need for a safe haven and due process. The selection of these cities also highlights the geographical distribution of refuge, ensuring that no matter where someone was in Israel, they could find safety and a chance for a fair hearing.
How to apply Joshua 20:7 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of providing safe spaces for those in need. In our communities, we should strive to create environments where individuals can seek help and find justice, especially for those who may be vulnerable or in crisis.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Joshua
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 20:7 mean?
Joshua 20:7 describes the establishment of cities of refuge in Israel, specifically Kedesh, Shechem, and Kirjatharba (Hebron). These cities were designated for individuals who accidentally caused harm, allowing them to seek safety from revenge while awaiting a fair trial.
What is the significance of cities of refuge in Joshua 20:7?
The cities of refuge mentioned in Joshua 20:7 were important for providing protection and justice for those who committed unintentional harm. They ensured that individuals could escape potential retaliation and have a chance for a fair hearing.
What are the cities listed in Joshua 20:7?
In Joshua 20:7, the cities listed as places of refuge are Kedesh in Galilee, Shechem in Ephraim, and Kirjatharba, which is also known as Hebron, in the mountain of Judah.
How does Joshua 20:7 relate to justice and mercy?
Joshua 20:7 illustrates the balance of justice and mercy by providing a system where individuals who accidentally harmed others could find refuge. This reflects the community's commitment to protecting the vulnerable while ensuring that justice is served.
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