Old Testament
Numbers 35:25
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 community is instructed to protect someone who has accidentally caused a death from the avenger of blood, who is typically a family member seeking revenge.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
The community must protect the person who caused the death from the avenger of blood and send them back to the city of refuge where they originally fled. That person must stay there until the high priest — the one anointed with holy oil — dies.
And the congregation shall deliver the slayer out of the hand of the revenger of blood, and the congregation shall restore him to the city of his refuge, whither he was fled: and he shall abide in it unto the death of the high priest, which was anointed with the holy oil.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the community is instructed to protect someone who has accidentally caused a death from the avenger of blood, who is typically a family member seeking revenge. The person who caused the death must be returned to a designated city of refuge, where they can live safely. This city serves as a sanctuary until the high priest dies. The death of the high priest symbolizes a form of atonement or release for the person who caused the death, allowing them to return to their home without fear of retribution. This system emphasizes the importance of justice, mercy, and the role of community in protecting individuals from harm, even when serious mistakes have been made. It reflects the balance between accountability and compassion in the legal framework of the community.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 35:25 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of providing refuge and support to those who have made mistakes, especially in difficult situations. It encourages communities to create safe spaces for healing and restoration, rather than seeking immediate retribution or punishment.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 35:25 mean?
Numbers 35:25 explains that a community must protect someone who accidentally caused a death from revenge by the victim's family. This person must be sent back to a city of refuge where they can live safely until the high priest dies.
What is the significance of the city of refuge in Numbers 35:25?
The city of refuge serves as a safe haven for individuals who have caused accidental deaths, allowing them to escape revenge. It emphasizes the community's role in providing protection and mercy.
What does the high priest's death symbolize in Numbers 35:25?
The death of the high priest in Numbers 35:25 symbolizes a form of atonement or release for the person who caused the death, allowing them to return home without fear of retribution.
How does Numbers 35:25 relate to justice and mercy?
Numbers 35:25 highlights the balance between justice and mercy by showing that while accountability is necessary, the community must also provide protection and support for those who have made serious mistakes.
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.
Unlock the full Numbers summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Numbers — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 36 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Numbers summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.