Deuteronomy 19:7

7 This is why I'm commanding you to set aside three cities for yourselves.

Deuteronomy 19:7 Meaning and Commentary

Deuteronomy 19:7

Wherefore I command thee, saying, thou shalt separate three
cities for thee.
] This was to be done immediately, as soon as they were settled in the land of Canaan, and established in the possession of it, the inhabitants being cut off, or driven out, or however subdued.

Deuteronomy 19:7 In-Context

5 Suppose two people go into the woods to cut wood. As one of them swings the ax to cut down a tree, the head flies off the handle, hits, and kills the other person. The one who accidentally killed the other person may run to one of these cities and save his life.

6 Otherwise, in a rage the relative who has the authority to avenge the death will pursue him. If the place is too far away, the relative may catch up with him and take his life even though he didn't deserve the death penalty, because in the past he never hated the person he killed.

7 This is why I'm commanding you to set aside three cities for yourselves.

8 The LORD your God may expand your country's borders as he promised your ancestors with an oath. He may give you the whole land he promised to give them.

9 He may do this because you faithfully obey all these commands I am now giving you--to love the LORD your God and follow his directions as long as you live. If this happens, you may add three more cities of refuge to these three.