Numbers 35:13 (KJV)

What does Numbers 35:13 mean?

Numbers 35:13 states that out of the cities given to the Levites, six of them are to be set aside as cities of refuge. These cities are meant to be places where someone who accidentally kills another person can flee for safety.

In this passage, God is giving instructions to Moses for the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The focus here is on providing a fair system for dealing with cases of unintentional killing, so that people have a safe place to go while their case is investigated, rather than facing immediate revenge. This verse is part of a larger section about justice and mercy in Israel’s community life.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 35:13

• The word for "cities" (עָרִים, arim) is repeated, emphasizing that these are specific, established places within the land, not just any location.
• The word "give" (נָתַן, natan) shows that these cities are to be intentionally provided or assigned by the people, not chosen at random.
• "Six" (שֵׁשׁ, shesh) is specific, showing that the number of refuge cities was set by command, not left to chance or later decision.
• The word for "refuge" (מִקְלָט, miqlat) means a place of shelter or protection, highlighting the purpose of these cities as safe havens from immediate harm or vengeance.

Why Numbers 35:13 matters

• Numbers 35:13 clarifies that the cities of refuge were not just a general idea but a concrete, organized part of Israel’s justice system, with a set number and a clear purpose.
• This verse connects to the wider passage by showing how God’s law balanced justice (dealing with killing) and mercy (protecting the accused until a fair hearing).
• Understanding this verse helps explain why the cities of refuge are mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament, showing their importance in Israel’s society and legal structure.