Old Testament

Numbers 35:15

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Numbers 35:15, God establishes six cities of refuge for those who accidentally cause the death of another person.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

These 6 cities of refuge will be available not only to Israelites but also to foreigners and immigrants living among you. Anyone who accidentally kills someone may flee to one of them.

KJVKing James Version

These six cities shall be a refuge, both for the children of Israel, and for the stranger, and for the sojourner among them: that every one that killeth any person unawares may flee thither.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Numbers 35:15, God establishes six cities of refuge for those who accidentally cause the death of another person. This provision is significant because it extends mercy not only to the Israelites but also to foreigners and immigrants living among them. The cities serve as safe havens where individuals can seek protection from avengers until a fair trial can be conducted. This reflects God's justice and compassion, ensuring that unintentional acts do not lead to unjust punishment. The inclusion of non-Israelites highlights the importance of mercy and justice for all people, regardless of their background. The cities of refuge symbolize a place of safety and the opportunity for redemption, emphasizing the need for a fair legal process. This passage illustrates God's desire for a society that values life and provides a means for reconciliation and justice, rather than revenge.

Key themes

Related topics

justice, mercy, inclusivity

How to apply Numbers 35:15 to your life

This verse encourages us to create safe spaces for those in need, offering support and understanding rather than judgment. It reminds us to be compassionate towards others, recognizing that mistakes can happen and that everyone deserves a chance for redemption and fair treatment.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Numbers 35:15 mean?

Numbers 35:15 explains that God provided six cities of refuge for anyone who accidentally kills someone, allowing both Israelites and foreigners to seek protection from avengers until a fair trial can occur.

What is the significance of cities of refuge in Numbers 35:15?

The cities of refuge in Numbers 35:15 symbolize mercy and justice, offering a safe haven for those who commit unintentional harm, ensuring they are not subjected to revenge without a fair legal process.

Who can use the cities of refuge mentioned in Numbers 35:15?

According to Numbers 35:15, the cities of refuge are available not only to the Israelites but also to strangers and immigrants living among them, highlighting inclusivity in God's justice system.

What is the main theme of Numbers 35:15?

The main theme of Numbers 35:15 is the provision of mercy and protection for those who cause accidental harm, emphasizing the importance of a fair legal process and the value of life.

The Book of Numbers
Book Summary

The Book of Numbers

Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.

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