Old Testament
Numbers 35:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
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.
Compare translations
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.
What Numbers 35:15 means
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.
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
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Numbers 35:15
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Numbers 35:15
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
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.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.