Avenger of Blood
Summary
The nearest male relative of a murdered person who had the right and obligation under ancient law to kill the murderer.
☩The Custom
The avenger of blood was the nearest relative of a murdered person who had the right and obligation to kill the murderer wherever he met him outside any city of refuge. This custom was universal among the Hebrews from earliest times, as seen in Cain's fear after killing Abel and Lamech's similar concern. It was also practiced among other ancient peoples including Greeks, and continues in the East among Arabians, Persians, Abyssinians, and others.
☩Mosaic Regulation
To restrain abuse of blood vengeance, Moses appointed six cities of refuge in different parts of the country where a manslayer could flee for safety. If the offense was not premeditated, the person could remain safely until the death of the high priest released him from danger. However, if the manslayer left the city or went beyond its prescribed limits, the avenger could kill him with impunity. The willful murderer was to be surrendered to the avenger for vengeance in any case.
☩Law of Retaliation
The law of Moses was precise regarding retaliation. The willful murderer was to be put to death without right of redemption, and the nearest relative became the authorized avenger. Importantly, the law of retaliation was not to extend beyond the immediate offender—children were not to be punished for their parents' crimes. David's handling of the woman of Tekoa's case shows that the king could modify application of this law.
Related Verses12 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Avenger of Blood," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.Edwin W. Rice, "Avenger of Blood," in The People's Dictionary of the Bible (American Sunday-School Union, 1893).