Numbers 35:19 (KJV)

What does Numbers 35:19 mean?

Numbers 35:19 says that the person known as the "revenger of blood" has the right and responsibility to kill a murderer when he encounters him. This was part of the ancient Israelite system for dealing with cases of intentional killing before there were formal courts and police.

In this passage, God is giving instructions to Moses for the Israelites about how to handle murder cases. The "revenger of blood" was usually a close relative of the person who was killed. This verse is part of a larger section explaining the difference between murder and accidental killing, and it sets up the need for cities of refuge, where someone accused of killing could flee for a fair hearing.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 35:19

• "Revenger" (גָּאַל, go'el) means "redeemer" or "protector," often a family member responsible for defending the family's rights, including avenging wrongful death.
• "Blood" (דָּם, dam) here refers to the blood of the murdered person, symbolizing their life and the seriousness of the crime.
• "Slay" (מוּת, muth) means "to kill" or "put to death," showing that the action is deliberate and final.
• "Murderer" (רָצַח, ratzach) specifically refers to someone who has killed another person unlawfully, not by accident.
• "Meeteth" (פָּגַע, paga‘) means "to encounter" or "come upon," suggesting that the act could happen whenever the avenger finds the murderer, not just in a formal setting.

Why Numbers 35:19 matters

• Numbers 35:19 clarifies that the right to avenge a murder was not open to just anyone, but was given to a specific family member, helping prevent uncontrolled cycles of violence.
• This verse highlights the seriousness with which ancient Israel treated the crime of murder, showing that it demanded a strong response to uphold justice.
• The instruction sets the stage for the later explanation of cities of refuge, balancing justice with mercy by providing a way for those accused of killing to receive a fair trial.