These were the cities appointed for all the children of Israel, and for the stranger that sojourneth among them, that whosoever killeth any person at unawares might flee thither, and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood, until he stood before the congregation.
JOSHUA 20:9KJVWhat does Joshua 20:9 mean?
Joshua 20:9 describes how certain cities were set apart as safe places for anyone in Israel—including foreigners living among them—who accidentally killed someone, so they could escape there and not be killed by a family avenger before having a fair hearing. This verse explains the purpose of these cities as a protection for those who caused a death unintentionally.
In the context of Joshua, God had instructed the Israelites to establish these "cities of refuge" after they entered the land. Joshua, as the leader, is making sure everyone—Israelite and non-Israelite alike—knows where they can go if they need this protection. The verse highlights both justice and mercy, making sure that even outsiders had the same right to safety and a proper trial.
The Hebrew behind Joshua 20:9
- "Stranger" (גֵּר, ger): This word means a foreigner or non-Israelite living among the people. Its use here shows that the law of refuge was meant for everyone in the land, not just native Israelites.
- "Sojourneth" (גּוּר, gur): This word refers to someone living temporarily or residing as a guest. It reinforces that even those without permanent status in Israel were protected.
- "Avenger" (גָּאַל, go'el): This is the word for a family protector or redeemer, often responsible for avenging wrongful deaths. The verse makes clear that the avenger could not act until a fair hearing was held.
- "Unawares" (שְׁגָגָה, shegagah): This word means by accident or unintentionally. The cities of refuge were only for those who killed someone without intent, not for murderers.
Why Joshua 20:9 matters
- Joshua 20:9 clarifies that God's justice system in Israel was not only for Israelites but also for foreigners and temporary residents, showing an early example of equal protection under the law.
- The verse emphasizes the importance of due process, making sure that even in cases of death, people were not punished before their case was properly heard by the community.
- This verse connects to the broader biblical theme of balancing justice and mercy, and it shows how the community was responsible for both protecting the innocent and upholding justice.