Deuteronomy chapter 19

vs 1

So that is, not now.

vs 2

This is a repeat of instructions. There are to be cities of refuge on both sides of the Jordan, too.

vs 3

The fact that roads are to be built to them is significant. This is a huge deal. Building roads is only what you do to major centres. God saying he wants roads built to these cities means he thinks this is important. And we're also reminded in a single sentence what they are for - if you kill someone, you can flee there.

vs 4

So just when you begin to think that the death penalty is a bit harsh, God puts in place mechanisms of mercy and justice, such as to protect those people who are responsible for the death of another, but only by accident.

vs 5

Obviously this is the sort of thing that could happen. It seems an odd illustration to use when Israel has been in the desert for 40 years. Perhaps sand isn't very dangerous.

vs 6

Just one more thing about the culture that we probably don't understand. Chasing down someone who killed one of your family and killing them was totally acceptable! It's an honour and shame culture, and to do nothing when someone kills one of your family is shameful. God does not speak out against this practice either - he merely sets up a situation whereby those who would be killed unjustly can be protected.

vs 7

A good explanation all around. Except for the illustration, but I'm sure it will make more sense once they have some forests.

vs 8

Wait, if? Don't you mean when? I suppose this contingency is linked to the obedience of Israel. The promised land is by no means an assurity. There is stuff they have to do, like conquer it.

vs 9

Aha! I was right.

vs 10

This is one of the ways that the land can be spoiled - by the Israelites allowing innocent blood to be spilled on their land. God wants justice. The blood they will spill in conquering is justice blood. But people can't be killed because of false allegation or in situations where they were not malicious. God will be displeased.