Deuteronomy 4:42 Meaning and Explanation
“That the slayer might flee thither, which should kill his neighbour unawares, and hated him not in times past; and that fleeing unto one of these cities he might live:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →These cities provide refuge for those who killed unintentionally and can flee there to survive.
The Context of Deuteronomy 4:42
Moses explains that accidental slayers can flee to the refuge cities to escape blood vengeance.
What Does Deuteronomy 4:42 Mean?
The purpose of the cities of refuge is clearly stated: to protect the unintentional slayer. The person who kills 'unawares' (accidentally) and had 'hated him not in times past' (had no prior enmity) can flee to one of these cities and live. The sanctuary provided by the city prevents the family of the deceased from executing blood vengeance on the killer.
This legal provision reflects the important biblical principle that intention matters morally. Accidental death, however tragic, is fundamentally different from murder and should not incur the same penalty. The refuge cities thus embody both mercy (protecting the innocent from unjust killing) and justice (distinguishing accidents from crimes). By allowing the killer to live if his action was truly unintentional, the law prevents innocent bloodshed while still protecting communities from murderers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 4:42
What does Deuteronomy 4:42 mean?
These cities provide refuge for those who killed unintentionally and can flee there to survive.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 4:42?
Moses explains that accidental slayers can flee to the refuge cities to escape blood vengeance.