Definition: But if the slayer shall at any time come without the border of the city of his refuge, whither he was fled;
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 35:26. It’s a pretty serious and important part of Jewish law, specifically concerning murder. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse deals with protecting the city's boundaries and preventing someone from fleeing to a dangerous area. It’s about safeguarding the safety of a community. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “But if the slayer shall at any time come without the border of the city of his refuge…” – This means before the murder occurs, the person who committed the killing must be inside the designated area of the city they're trying to escape. Think of it like a fence or boundary. “whither he was fled” - This is key! It refers to fleeing from the consequences of their actions. They've left the area where they were supposed to be. What does this mean practically? Historically, this verse was a crucial element in laws designed to prevent people from escaping justice after committing murder. It established a very strict rule: The person who committed the murder must be inside the city's boundaries when it happens. Why is this important? This law served several purposes: Protecting the community: It meant that if someone attempted to escape, it would disrupt the peace and security of the city. Preventing further harm: It aimed to stop the killer from fleeing to a place where they could continue causing trouble or potentially be caught later. In short, this verse is a legal safeguard designed to maintain order and safety within a community. --- Important Note: This passage is a complex part of Jewish law and has been interpreted in various ways throughout history. It’s important to remember that the context was very specific to ancient Israelite society. Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give more historical context about this verse?