Definition: And the revenger of blood find him without the borders of the city of his refuge, and the revenger of blood kill the slayer; he shall not be guilty of blood:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 35:27. It's a pretty serious passage about justice and accountability. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it means in plain English: “And the revenger of blood finds him without the boundaries of the city where he is hiding, and the revenger of blood kills the one who killed him – he will not be guilty of murder.” Let's unpack it further: “The revenger of blood” : This refers to someone who was involved in a violent act, like a murder. It’s a person who is seeking revenge or retribution. “Without the borders of the city of his refuge” : This is key. "Refuge" means a safe place or haven. This means the revenger of blood must not be found within the walls of the city where he's hiding . It’s a rule designed to prevent him from continuing to cause harm and seeking revenge in a secure location. “Kill the slayer” : This is the core of the verse. The revenger of blood is commanded to kill the person who killed him . It’s a direct punishment for taking a life. “He shall not be guilty of blood” : This emphasizes that this act of killing is forbidden because it's directly related to the original violence. What does this verse teach us? This passage highlights several important principles: Justice and Accountability: It’s a strong statement about holding people accountable for their actions, especially those who cause harm. Preventing Retaliation: The rule is intended to stop someone from seeking revenge after committing a violent act, ensuring that the cycle of violence doesn't continue. The Importance of Justice: It underscores the idea that justice must be served and that taking life is a serious transgression. Context & Significance (Briefly): This verse appears in the Book of Numbers, which was part of the Old Testament. It’s found within the context of a period where there were conflicts between different tribes or groups. It's often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of seeking revenge and emphasizing the importance of upholding justice. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or historical event? Discuss its meaning within a particular religious tradition (like Judaism, Christianity, or Islam)?