Joshua 20:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Joshua 20:5
5 And if the avenger of blood pursue after him, then they shall not deliver the slayer up into his hand; because he smote his neighbour unwittingly, and hated him not beforetime.
Chapter Context
Joshua 20 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of salvation, discipleship, wisdom. Written during the conquest of Canaan (c. 1406-1375 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Canaan was fragmented into city-states with various tribal alliances and religious practices.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-9: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Joshua and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Joshua 20:5
5 And if the avenger of blood pursue after him, then they shall not deliver the slayer up into his hand; because he smote his neighbour unwittingly, and hated him not beforetime.
Analysis
And if the avenger of blood pursue after him, then they shall not deliver the slayer up into his hand; because he smote his neighbour unwittingly—The go'el ha-dam (גֹּאֵל הַדָּם, 'avenger of blood') was the victim's nearest kinsman, obligated to exact justice. But cities of refuge protect those who killed unwittingly (bishgagah, בִּשְׁגָגָה, 'in error/without intent'). And hated him not beforetime proves no malice existed.
Intent matters to God. Accidental sin differs from presumptuous sin (Numbers 15:27-31). Christ's blood provides refuge from the consequences we deserve, but we must flee to Him. The avenger cannot breach the refuge—Satan cannot pluck believers from Christ's hand (John 10:28-29).
Historical Context
The go'el (redeemer/avenger) had dual roles: redeeming family property and avenging family blood. This kinsman-redeemer concept prefigures Christ who redeems us from sin's slavery and death's penalty (Ephesians 1:7, Galatians 3:13).
Reflection
- How does distinguishing accidental from intentional sin reflect God's justice and mercy?
- In what ways does Christ function as both refuge and kinsman-redeemer?
Word Studies
- Blood: דָּם (Dam) H1818 - Blood
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Numbers 35:12