Numbers 35:15 Meaning and Explanation
“These six cities shall be a refuge, both for the children of Israel, and for the stranger, and for the sojourner among them: that every one that killeth any person unawares may flee thither.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Refuge cities protect all who kill unintentionally—native Israelites and resident foreigners alike.
The Context of Numbers 35:15
Refuge cities serve Israelites, resident aliens, and sojourners equally.
What Does Numbers 35:15 Mean?
The law extends protection to strangers and sojourners (non-Israelites living in Israel). This reflects the principle that justice applies to all under God's law, not only to the covenant people.
The universal opening of refuge cities demonstrates that the law values innocent life and fair trial regardless of ethnicity or origin. An accidental killing is an accidental killing, regardless of who caused it.
Numbers 35:15 in the Original Language
sojourner (גֵּר, ger) — a resident foreigner with legal standing, distinct from a temporary visitor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 35:15
What does Numbers 35:15 mean?
Refuge cities protect all who kill unintentionally—native Israelites and resident foreigners alike.
What is the context of Numbers 35:15?
Refuge cities serve Israelites, resident aliens, and sojourners equally.