Joshua 21:13

Joshua 21:13 Meaning and Explanation

Thus they gave to the children of Aaron the priest Hebron with her suburbs, to be a city of refuge for the slayer; and Libnah with her suburbs,

King James Version (KJV)

Read this verse in context with translation switching:

Read Full Chapter →

Hebron is given to the priests as a city of refuge for one who has killed unintentionally, along with Libnah.

What Does Joshua 21:13 Mean?

Hebron is now named a city of refuge, a place where someone who has killed by accident may flee from the avenger of blood and find safety until judged. That such a city is entrusted to the priests joins mercy to their ministry.

Among the servants of God, the desperate find shelter. The priestly city becomes a sanctuary for the endangered, a place where the pursued may breathe. Here the gospel's shadow falls early: a refuge appointed by God, where the guilty-by-accident run and are not destroyed but kept safe.

Joshua 21:13 in the Original Language

miqlat (מִקְלָט), 'refuge' -- a place of asylum where the manslayer was received and protected.

Frequently Asked Questions About Joshua 21:13

What does Joshua 21:13 mean?

Hebron is given to the priests as a city of refuge for one who has killed unintentionally, along with Libnah.

Keep Studying Joshua 21

Read the whole chapter in KJV, ASV, or WEB, or go deeper with the chapter study guide and key themes.