The Conquest
Teachers
Lesson Summary
The class focused on the biblical system of cities of refuge as outlined in Joshua 20:1-6, emphasizing their role in protecting unintentional manslayers from the avenger of blood. The teacher explained the concept of the Goel (kinsman redeemer) and its connection to legal and familial obligations, drawing parallels to Exodus 21:23’s principle of restitution and the distinction between murder and manslaughter. The discussion highlighted how ancient Israelite law sought to balance justice with mercy, ensuring that accidental killers could find safety while the avenger of blood fulfilled their duty. The teacher also compared these biblical principles to modern legal systems, noting similarities in the treatment of unintentional killing. The class explored the practical implications of these laws, including the six designated cities of refuge and the requirement for the manslayer to remain until the death of the high priest. This structure reflected God’s design for restoring life and protecting the innocent.
Key Scriptures
Then the Lord said to Joshua, Say to the people of Israel, appoint the cities of refuge of which I spoke to you through Moses, that the manslayer who strikes any person without intent or unknowingly may flee there. They shall be for you a refuge from the avenger, so that the manslayer may not die before he stands before the congregation for judgment, and the congregation may not let the avenger kill the manslayer without a trial before the congregation.
If there is harm, then you shall pay life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.