Numbers 35:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 35:21
21 Or in enmity smite him with his hand, that he die: he that smote him shall surely be put to death; for he is a murderer: the revenger of blood shall slay the murderer, when he meeteth him.
Chapter Context
Numbers 35 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, obedience, grace. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-34: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 35:21
21 Or in enmity smite him with his hand, that he die: he that smote him shall surely be put to death; for he is a murderer: the revenger of blood shall slay the murderer, when he meeteth him.
Analysis
Or in enmity smite him with his hand (בְאֵיבָה, b'eivah)—enmity (from oyev, 'enemy') denotes ongoing hostility, not momentary anger. Even bare-handed killing qualified as murder if driven by sustained hatred. The law penetrates beyond the weapon to the will: murder resides in enmity, not merely in the instrument.
The revenger of blood shall slay the murderer, when he meeteth him—this refrain (cf. v.19) establishes the go'el's right and duty. The repetition throughout verses 16-21 creates a legal drumbeat: willful murder demands capital justice. Yet verse 22 introduces the merciful alternative for accidental homicide.
Historical Context
The distinction between sinah (hatred, v.20) and eivah (enmity, v.21) reflects nuanced Hebrew legal terminology developed during Israel's wilderness period (1446-1406 BC). Later rabbinic interpretation required witnesses to testify specifically about the killer's prior hostility.
Reflection
- Why does God's law require capital punishment for murder—what does this reveal about the sanctity of human life created in God's image?
- How does the emphasis on enmity (<em>eivah</em>) versus sudden passion distinguish degrees of culpability in biblical justice?
Word Studies
- Blood: דָּם (Dam) H1818 - Blood