Book of Numbers - Chapter 35 - Verse 28

This verse from the Bible, found in Numbers 35:28, is part of the section outlining the cities of refuge for those who accidentally kill someone. In biblical times, these cities were designated as safe havens for individuals who unintentionally caused the death of another person. According to this verse, the individual seeking refuge must remain in the city until the death of the high priest. The reasoning behind this requirement is rooted in the belief that the high priest's death symbolizes the atonement for sin, allowing the individual to be released from the consequences of their actions. Once the high priest has passed away, the individual is then allowed to return to their own land and resume their life. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking forgiveness and finding redemption through the proper channels in order to be restored to one's rightful place in society.

One possible theological interpretation of this verse could point to the importance of accountability and atonement for one's actions. The city of refuge served as a place of safety for those who had unintentionally caused harm to others, allowing them to escape retribution from the avenger of blood. By remaining in the city of refuge until the death of the high priest, the slayer was fulfilling their duty and accepting responsibility for their actions. The return to their land of possession after the high priest's death symbolizes a completion of this period of atonement, allowing the individual to resume their life in the community.

Examining the terminology used in this verse, the word "possession" may refer not only to the physical land owned by the individual but also to their rightful place within the community. The concept of waiting until the death of the high priest before returning to their possession could be seen as a symbolic act of respecting authority and seeking redemption through patience and obedience to God's laws.