Deuteronomy 19:5 Meaning
As 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:
Context Explained
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.
7Wherefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt separate three cities for thee.
Key Themes
Related Cross References
Numbers 35:22
Both verses outline the conditions under which a person may flee to a city of refuge after causing accidental harm.
Matthew 5:25
This verse advises settling matters quickly, reflecting the importance of justice and reconciliation.
Luke 10:33-34
The Good Samaritan's actions reflect the mercy and care that should be extended to those in need, similar to the refuge concept.
Source: Deuteronomy 19:5