Numbers 35:21

21 or from enmity smite him with his hand, so that he die, he that smote him shall certainly be put to death; he is a murderer: the avenger of blood shall put the murderer to death, when he meeteth him. --

Numbers 35:21 Meaning and Commentary

Numbers 35:21

Or in enmity smite him with his hand, that he die
Give him a blow with his fist, on some part of his body where life is most in danger, and which issues in death:

he that smote him shall surely be put to death, for he is a murderer;
and therefore, according to the original law, ought to die, without reprieve or pardon; and notwithstanding this law made for cities of refuge, which were to be denied him:

the revenger of blood shall slay the murderer when he meeteth him:
that is, when he is condemned, as both the Targums of Onkelos and Jonathan interpret it, after a hearing and trial of his case.

Numbers 35:21 In-Context

19 the avenger of blood, he shall put the murderer to death; when he meeteth him, he shall put him to death.
20 And if he thrust at him out of hatred, or hurl at him intentionally, so that he die,
21 or from enmity smite him with his hand, so that he die, he that smote him shall certainly be put to death; he is a murderer: the avenger of blood shall put the murderer to death, when he meeteth him. --
22 But if he have thrust at him suddenly without enmity, or have cast upon him anything unintentionally,
23 or [have smitten him] with any stone wherewith one may die, without seeing him, and have cast it upon him so that he die, and he was not his enemy, neither sought his harm:
The Darby Translation is in the public domain.