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Book of Numbers - Chapter 35 - Verse 19

35:19
The revenger of blood himself shall slay the murderer: when he meeteth him, he shall slay him.

Meaning

In the Bible, the verse "The revenger of blood himself shall slay the murderer: when he meeteth him, he shall slay him." from Numbers 35:19-21 is a part of the Mosaic law regarding the punishment for murder. This verse explains the concept of "avenger of blood" in ancient Israelite society, where it was the responsibility of a close relative of a murder victim to avenge their death by killing the murderer. This act was considered a form of justice and retribution for the crime committed. The Mosaic law provided guidelines for how this avenging of blood should take place, ensuring that the punishment was carried out in a just and regulated manner. This verse serves as a reminder of the severity of taking a life and the importance of seeking justice for the innocent. It illustrates the principle of "an eye for an eye" that was prevalent in ancient legal systems, emphasizing the idea of accountability and consequences for one's actions.

Theological Overview

In the book of Numbers 35:19, the concept of the avenger of blood is introduced. The term "avenger of blood" refers to a close relative of a person who has been killed, who is responsible for seeking justice on behalf of the deceased. In ancient Israel, there was no formal legal system in place to prosecute murderers, so it was the responsibility of the avenger of blood to bring the murderer to justice. This concept highlights the importance of seeking justice for the innocent and holding individuals accountable for their actions. The verse emphasizes the seriousness of murder and the need for consequences to be meted out. From a theological perspective, this verse can be interpreted as reflecting the importance of upholding justice and the value of human life. It also serves as a reminder of the responsibility we have to ensure that justice is served in cases of wrongdoing.

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