Numbers·Chapter 35

How to Apply

You can live out this verse by being a safe space for someone in your life. Maybe there's a friend who’s going through a tough time or someone who feels judged and isolated. Take a step to reach out, listen without judgment, and offer your support. You can also create a community, whether it’s a group of friends or a larger gathering, where everyone feels welcome and valued. Think about ways to show compassion to those who may have made mistakes or are seeking a fresh start. This week, look for opportunities to be that city of refuge for someone around you.

Chapter Context

In Numbers 35, the Israelites are preparing to settle in their new land, and God is laying down the law for a just society. This verse is pivotal because it shows how God cares about justice and mercy. Before this moment, God was outlining the laws for the people, and now, He’s giving them a lifeline—a way to deal with unintentional harm. After this verse, the chapter goes on to detail how these cities will function and the rules surrounding them, creating a system that balances justice with compassion. It’s a turning point that emphasizes the importance of offering a way back to safety and community.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• give - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• three - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• beyond - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• jordan - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• three - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• land - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• refuge - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

How can you create a 'city of refuge' in your life for someone who needs support right now?

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 19:2 - This verse expands on the idea of setting up cities of refuge, showing that this was part of a broader plan for justice and compassion.
• Joshua 20:7 - Here, we see the implementation of these cities, demonstrating how they became a reality for the Israelites.
• Matthew 5:7 - In this verse, Jesus speaks about mercy, connecting back to the heart of why these cities were established—to reflect compassion in a world that often lacks it.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Numbers 35:14. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Levite Inheritance, Cities of Refuge, Justice and Mercy, Accidental Killing, Divine Command, Protection of Life, Community Responsibility

Key Verses

Numbers 35:6, Numbers 35:11, Numbers 35:15, Numbers 35:19, Numbers 35:24

Historical Context

This chapter is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. As they prepare to settle in Canaan, it is crucial to establish a legal and societal framework that both honors God's commandments and addresses human behavior. The Levites, as the priestly tribe, play a critical role in this process, and the cities of refuge reflect God's desire for justice as well as mercy. This chapter is significant in the context of Israel's identity as a nation governed by divine law.