Joshua 20:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Joshua 20:9
9 These were the cities appointed for all the children of Israel, and for the stranger that sojourneth among them, that whosoever killeth any person at unawares might flee thither, and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood, until he stood before the congregation.
Chapter Context
Joshua 20 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, redemption, love. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 20:9
9 These were the cities appointed for all the children of Israel, and for the stranger that sojourneth among them, that whosoever killeth any person at unawares might flee thither, and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood, until he stood before the congregation.
Analysis
These were the cities appointed for all the children of Israel, and for the stranger that sojourneth among them—Refuge extends beyond ethnic Israel to the stranger (ger, גֵּר, 'sojourner/resident alien'). This inclusiveness foreshadows the gospel's universal offer. That whosoever killeth any person at unawares might flee thither, and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood, until he stood before the congregation.
The 'whosoever' principle pervades Scripture (John 3:16, Romans 10:13). God's mercy isn't tribal or ethnic but universal. The stranger received equal protection, prefiguring Gentile inclusion in Christ. The condition: coming to the refuge. Christ saves 'whosoever' believes—but they must come.
Historical Context
Including foreigners in Israel's justice system was revolutionary in the ancient Near East. Most legal codes granted rights only to citizens. This egalitarian principle reflected God's character and Israel's own history as strangers in Egypt (Exodus 22:21, 23:9).
Reflection
- How does the inclusion of 'strangers' in the refuge system reflect the gospel's universal offer?
- What modern applications exist for treating sojourners and foreigners with equal justice?
Word Studies
- Blood: דָּם (Dam) H1818 - Blood
Cross-References
- References Israel: Numbers 35:15