King James Version
What Does Numbers 35:9 Mean?
“And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,”
Numbers 35:9 · KJV
Context
7
So all the cities which ye shall give to the Levites shall be forty and eight cities: them shall ye give with their suburbs.
8
And the cities which ye shall give shall be of the possession of the children of Israel: from them that have many ye shall give many; but from them that have few ye shall give few: every one shall give of his cities unto the Levites according to his inheritance which he inheriteth. he: Heb. they inherit
9
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
10
Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye be come over Jordan into the land of Canaan;
11
Then ye shall appoint you cities to be cities of refuge for you; that the slayer may flee thither, which killeth any person at unawares. at: Heb. by error
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryGod commanded establishment of cities of refuge—places where accidental killers could flee from revenge. This system demonstrated sophisticated justice distinguishing intentional murder from manslaughter. God's law protects both justice (punishing intentional crime) and mercy (sparing accidents). These cities prefigure Christ as refuge for sinners fleeing judgment.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Six cities were designated (three on each side of Jordan, verse 14), strategically located for accessibility. Roads to these cities were maintained and marked, making them easy to reach. This reflects God's provision of accessible salvation—Christ is not hidden but readily available to all who flee to Him.
Reflection Questions
- How does Christ serve as 'city of refuge' for believers fleeing judgment?
- What does God's balance of justice and mercy teach about His character?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 5 wordsוַיְדַבֵּ֥ר1 of 5
“spake”
H1696perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֖ה2 of 5
“And the LORD”
H3068(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Numbers 35:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.