Numbers 35:21

21 or out of hostility strikes him with his hand, so that he dies; then the one who struck him must be put to death; he is a murderer; and the next-of-kin avenger is to put the murderer to death upon meeting 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 next-of-kin avenger is to put the murderer to death himself - upon meeting him, he is to put him to death.

20 Likewise, if he shoves him out of hatred; or intentionally throws something at him, causing his death;

21 or out of hostility strikes him with his hand, so that he dies; then the one who struck him must be put to death; he is a murderer; and the next-of-kin avenger is to put the murderer to death upon meeting him.

22 "'But suppose he shoves him suddenly, but without hostility; or he throws something at him unintentionally;

23 or, without seeing him, being his enemy or seeking to harm him, he throws a stone big enough to cause death; and the person dies.