A sanctuary is often defined as a sacred place. Some church members will refer to the worship building or the area around the altar as the sanctuary. But the word has also been defined as a place of safety, a refuge for someone seeking protection.
One of those original meanings for the word sanctuary appears in Numbers 34–35, where God establishes both territorial boundaries and cities of refuge for His people as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. Numbers 34 meticulously outlines Israel’s borders. These were divine borders, defining where God’s people belonged. The detailed tribal allotments ensured every family had their place in the covenant community. But God’s justice system required more than territorial boundaries—it needed places where mercy could operate alongside justice. God commanded Moses: “Select some towns to be your cities of refuge, to which a person who has killed someone accidentally may flee” (35:11). This wasn’t about protecting criminals but ensuring justice for those who unintentionally caused death.
The cities of refuge provided crucial protection: “They will be places of refuge from the avenger, so that anyone accused of murder may not die before they stand trial before the assembly” (35:12). Six cities—three on each side of the Jordan—offered sanctuary until proper investigation could determine guilt or innocence.
These cities represented God’s heart for both justice and mercy. The guilty faced consequences, but the innocent received protection. The high priest’s death would eventually free even those guilty of accidental killing (35:25), pointing toward ultimate redemption. In Jesus, we see the ultimate fulfillment of this idea. He becomes our refuge, not just from earthly consequences but from the judgment our sins deserve.
Go Deeper
What purpose did the cities of refuge serve in Numbers? How has God provided a refuge for us in Jesus?
Pray with Us
What a blessing it is, Lord, to take refuge in You! You are our sanctuary, our safe place. You not only provided salvation but know us and protect us and guide us each day. Thank you.
In the LORD I take refuge.Psalm 11:1
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