Bible Verse: Numbers 35:13

Verse Text: "And of these cities which ye shall give unto the Levites, six cities shall ye appoint for refuge, to which a slayer may flee: and to them ye shall add forty and two cities."

Meaning and Interpretation:

This verse outlines the provision of cities of refuge for individuals who accidentally commit manslaughter, illustrating God's mercy and justice. The Levites, who were set apart for religious duties, were given specific cities, reinforcing their unique role within the Israelite community.

Insights from Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that the cities of refuge reflect God’s compassion in providing places where those who had unintentionally killed someone could find safety. This ensured that justice is paired with mercy, highlighting God's care for human life.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes notes that these cities serve a dual purpose: they offer protection to the innocent and enforce the need for accountability in cases of fatal accidents. The allocation of specific cities also cultivates a structured societal response to unintentional transgressions.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke discusses the significance of the numbers mentioned. By providing six cities of refuge, the text reflects a careful consideration to ensure accessibility for all Israelites, indicating a divine intention for order and refuge in a chaotic world.

Related Bible Cross References

• Exodus 21:13-14: Discusses the distinction between accidental and intentional killing, reinforcing the concept of refuge.
• Deuteronomy 19:1-13: Expands on the cities of refuge and the laws surrounding manslaughter.
• Joshua 20:2-6: Details the implementation of the cities of refuge in the Promised Land.
• Hebrews 6:18: Alludes to God as a refuge for believers, mirroring the safety found in the cities of refuge.
• Psalms 46:1: Declares God as a refuge and strength, further illustrating a theme of divine protection.
• Romans 8:1: Emphasizes the lack of condemnation for those in Christ, paralleling the mercy given in cities of refuge.
• Proverbs 18:10: States that the name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe, akin to the concept of refuge.

Thematic Connections

This verse and its cross-references exhibit a thematic connection to justice, mercy, and refuge throughout the Scriptures. They illustrate how God provides for those who are vulnerable and ensures that the community reflects His justice. The escape found in the cities of refuge parallels the salvation offered through Jesus Christ, revealing a rich tapestry of inter-Biblical dialogue.

Understanding Through Cross-Referencing

The practice of cross-referencing biblical texts enhances the study of Scripture, allowing believers to see the interconnectedness of God’s word. Through tools such as a Bible concordance or cross-reference guide, individuals can identify thematic Bible verse connections and gain deeper insights into Biblical teachings.

Conclusion

Numbers 35:13 is more than a legal provision; it serves as a reflection of God's nature—merciful, just, and caring. By linking this verse with others throughout the Bible, one can appreciate the comprehensive narrative of refuge provided by God, which is crucial for understanding the overarching themes of liberation and justice within the Biblical text.