Deuteronomy 19:4 Meaning
And this is the case of the slayer, which shall flee thither, that he may live: Whoso killeth his neighbour ignorantly, whom he hated not in time past;
Context Explained
2Thou shalt separate three cities for thee in the midst of thy land, which the LORD thy God giveth thee to possess it.
3Thou shalt prepare thee a way, and divide the coasts of thy land, which the LORD thy God giveth thee to inherit, into three parts, that every slayer may flee thither.
4And this is the case of the slayer, which shall flee thither, that he may live: Whoso killeth his neighbour ignorantly, whom he hated not in time past;
5As when a man goeth into the wood with his neighbour to hew wood, and his hand fetcheth a stroke with the axe to cut down the tree, and the head slippeth from the helve, and lighteth upon his neighbour, that he die; he shall flee unto one of those cities, and live:
6Lest the avenger of the blood pursue the slayer, while his heart is hot, and overtake him, because the way is long, and slay him; whereas he was not worthy of death, inasmuch as he hated him not in time past.
Key Themes
Related Cross References
Exodus 21:13
Both verses discuss the concept of unintentional manslaughter and the provision for refuge.
Matthew 5:21-22
This passage expands on the seriousness of murder and the heart behind actions, connecting to the theme of justice.
Numbers 35:11
This verse also addresses cities of refuge for those who kill unintentionally, reinforcing the principle of mercy.
Source: Deuteronomy 19:4