They are places of refuge, ensuring fair judgment and highlighting God’s care for justice.
Joshua 20:7 declares that “So they set apart Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country of Naphtali and Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim, and Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the hill country of Judah.” (v.7) This verse describes three special cities designated to serve as refuges in ancient Israel. These cities were selected by Joshua, who led the Israelites after Moses from approximately 1400 BC to 1375 BC, in obedience to the instructions God had previously given through Moses (see Numbers 35). By establishing these cities, Joshua ensured there would be safe havens where individuals accused of manslaughter could flee until a fair trial could be conducted. Their designation underscores the emphasis Scripture places on justice accompanied by mercy, demonstrating God’s concern for the well-being of His people.
When this verse mentions “Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country of Naphtali” (v.7), it refers to an area in the northern region of ancient Israel, located in the territory of the tribe of Naphtali. This territory featured rugged yet fertile hills and valleys, providing agricultural and strategic advantages. Shechem, identified as being “in the hill country of Ephraim” (v.7), sits in central Israel between Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal; it was a significant location for covenant ceremonies and gatherings. Finally, “Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron)” (v.7) stands in the southern portion of the land, in the hill country of Judah. Hebron was a venerable city with ancient ties dating back to Abraham, and it also served as King David’s capital before Jerusalem (2 Samuel 2-5).
These three cities—Kedesh, Shechem, and Hebron—symbolize God’s provision for justice and point forward to the perfect refuge found in Jesus Christ (Hebrews 6:18-20). Just as an individual could run to a city of refuge for protection, so believers today can draw near to Christ for salvation and sanctification. The careful selection of these cities in strategic locations throughout the land reveals the detailed way God cares for His people, ensuring that no one in need of protection would be left without a safe place to go.
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Joshua 20:7 meaning
Joshua 20:7 declares that “So they set apart Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country of Naphtali and Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim, and Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the hill country of Judah.” (v.7) This verse describes three special cities designated to serve as refuges in ancient Israel. These cities were selected by Joshua, who led the Israelites after Moses from approximately 1400 BC to 1375 BC, in obedience to the instructions God had previously given through Moses (see Numbers 35). By establishing these cities, Joshua ensured there would be safe havens where individuals accused of manslaughter could flee until a fair trial could be conducted. Their designation underscores the emphasis Scripture places on justice accompanied by mercy, demonstrating God’s concern for the well-being of His people.
When this verse mentions “Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country of Naphtali” (v.7), it refers to an area in the northern region of ancient Israel, located in the territory of the tribe of Naphtali. This territory featured rugged yet fertile hills and valleys, providing agricultural and strategic advantages. Shechem, identified as being “in the hill country of Ephraim” (v.7), sits in central Israel between Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal; it was a significant location for covenant ceremonies and gatherings. Finally, “Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron)” (v.7) stands in the southern portion of the land, in the hill country of Judah. Hebron was a venerable city with ancient ties dating back to Abraham, and it also served as King David’s capital before Jerusalem (2 Samuel 2-5).
These three cities—Kedesh, Shechem, and Hebron—symbolize God’s provision for justice and point forward to the perfect refuge found in Jesus Christ (Hebrews 6:18-20). Just as an individual could run to a city of refuge for protection, so believers today can draw near to Christ for salvation and sanctification. The careful selection of these cities in strategic locations throughout the land reveals the detailed way God cares for His people, ensuring that no one in need of protection would be left without a safe place to go.