Old Testament
Joshua 20:8
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the Israelites are establishing cities of refuge on the east side of the Jordan River.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
On the east side of the Jordan, near Jericho, they designated Bezer in the wilderness on the plain from the tribe of Reuben, Ramoth in Gilead from the tribe of Gad, and Golan in Bashan from the tribe of Manasseh.
And on the other side Jordan by Jericho eastward, they assigned Bezer in the wilderness upon the plain out of the tribe of Reuben, and Ramoth in Gilead out of the tribe of Gad, and Golan in Bashan out of the tribe of Manasseh.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Israelites are establishing cities of refuge on the east side of the Jordan River. These cities are important for providing safety to individuals who accidentally cause harm to others. Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan are named as specific locations designated for this purpose, each belonging to different tribes: Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh. This allocation reflects the organization of the Israelite community and their commitment to justice and mercy. The cities serve as a sanctuary for those seeking protection from avengers, ensuring that they receive a fair trial rather than facing immediate retribution. This practice highlights the importance of mercy in the law and the need for a system that allows for due process, even in cases of unintentional wrongdoing.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Joshua 20:8 to your life
This verse encourages us to create safe spaces in our communities where individuals can seek refuge and support. It reminds us of the importance of mercy and justice in our interactions, urging us to provide help to those in need and to ensure fair treatment for all.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 20:8 mean?
Joshua 20:8 describes the establishment of cities of refuge on the east side of the Jordan River, specifically Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan. These cities were designated to provide safety for individuals who accidentally caused harm, allowing them to seek protection and a fair trial.
What is the significance of cities of refuge in Joshua 20:8?
The cities of refuge mentioned in Joshua 20:8 are significant because they represent a system of justice and mercy in ancient Israel. They allowed individuals who committed unintentional harm to escape immediate retribution and seek a fair legal process.
What tribes are mentioned in Joshua 20:8?
In Joshua 20:8, the tribes mentioned are Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh. Each tribe is associated with a specific city of refuge: Bezer for Reuben, Ramoth for Gad, and Golan for Manasseh.
How does Joshua 20:8 relate to justice and mercy?
Joshua 20:8 illustrates the principles of justice and mercy by establishing cities of refuge where individuals could find safety after causing accidental harm. This reflects the importance of providing fair treatment and due process in the community.

The Book of Joshua
1: God Commissions Joshua
After the death of Moses, the Lord commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. God commands him to be strong and courageous, assuring him of success and divine presence, just as He was with Moses. He instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night and to observe all that is written in it, for then he will be prosperous and successful. Joshua, in turn, commands the officers of the people to prepare for the crossing of the Jordan River within three days. He also reminds the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh of their promise to Moses to help their brethren conquer the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own inheritance on the east side. The people pledge their loyalty to Joshua, promising to obey him as they did Moses and encouraging him to be strong and courageous.
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