Though a man be killed at unawares, yet it is God’s providence that it should so be.
Historical and theological verse study from Book of Exodus, Chapter 21.
Apply the spiritual lesson of Exodus 21:13 through prayerful reflection and faithful obedience.
“Gracious Father, write the truth of Exodus 21:13 upon my heart by the power of Your Holy Spirit. Amen.”
“Qui autem non est insidiatus, sed Deus illum tradidit in manus ejus, constituam tibi locum in quem fugere debeat.”
“And if a man lie not in wait, but God deliver him into his hand; then I will appoint thee a place whither he shall flee.”
“If, however, he did not lie in wait, but God allowed it to happen, then I will appoint for you a place where he may flee.”
“but not if it is unintentional, but God allows it to happen: then I will appoint you a place where he shall flee.”
“And if a man lie not in wait, but God deliver him into his hand; then I will appoint thee a place whither he shall flee.”
Though a man be killed at unawares, yet it is God’s providence that it should so be.
God. When a person was slain undesignedly, the Providence of God was to be adored in silence, as nothing happens without his permission. (Haydock) See Numbers xxv. 6.
Verses 12-21 God, who by his providence gives and maintains life, by his law protects it. A wilful murderer shall be taken even from God's altar. But God provided cities of refuge to protect those whose unhappiness it was, and not their fault, to cause the death of another; for such as by accident, when a man is doing a lawful act, without intent of hurt, happens to kill another. Let children hear the sentence of God's word upon the ungrateful and disobedient; and remember that God will certainly requite it, if they have ever cursed their parents, even in their hearts, or have lifted up their hands against them, except they repent, and flee for refuge to the Saviour. And let parents hence learn to be very careful in training up their children, setting them a good example, especially in the government of their passions, and in praying for them; taking heed not to provoke them to wrath. Through poverty the Israelites sometimes sold themselves or their children; magistrates sold some persons for their crimes, and creditors were in some cases allowed to sell their debtors who could not pay. But "man-stealing," the object of which is to force another into slavery, is ranked in the New Testament with the greatest crimes. Care is here taken, that satisfaction be made for hurt done to a person, though death do not follow. The gospel teaches masters to forbear, and to moderate threatenings, ( Ephesians 6:9 ) , considering with Job, What shall I do, when God riseth up? ( Job 31:13 Job 31:14 ) .