Numbers 35:25 Meaning and Explanation
“And the congregation shall deliver the slayer out of the hand of the revenger of blood, and the congregation shall restore him to the city of his refuge, whither he was fled: and he shall abide in it unto the death of the high priest, which was anointed with the holy oil.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →If judged unintentional, the slayer is protected and returns to the refuge city until the high priest dies.
The Context of Numbers 35:25
Condemned slayers dwell in refuge cities pending the high priest's death.
What Does Numbers 35:25 Mean?
The congregation's verdict protects the unintentional slayer from the avenger. The slayer returns to the refuge city as a prisoner, not a free person, but under the congregation's protection.
The limit is the high priest's death—years or decades, depending on the priest's lifespan. This time allows community memory of the incident to fade and prevents blood-feuds from spanning generations. The high priest's death marks a natural transition point.
Numbers 35:25 in the Original Language
anointed with the holy oil (מָשַׁח בְּשֶׁמֶן הַקּוֹדֶשׁ, mashach b'shemen hakodesh) — the solemn consecration of the high priest, marking him as set apart for God's service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 35:25
What does Numbers 35:25 mean?
If judged unintentional, the slayer is protected and returns to the refuge city until the high priest dies.
What is the context of Numbers 35:25?
Condemned slayers dwell in refuge cities pending the high priest's death.