Fugitive
“Escaped one / wanderer / one fleeing”
Summary
One who flees from danger, escapes from bondage, deserts from duty, or wanders aimlessly, with various Hebrew terms capturing these distinct meanings.
☩Definition
The Hebrew words for fugitive include palit (from palat, 'to escape'), na (from nua, 'to waver'), and bariach (from barach, 'to flee'). A fugitive may be one who flees from danger (Isaiah 15:5; Ezekiel 17:21), escapes from bondage, deserts from duty (Judges 12:4; 2 Kings 25:11), or wanders aimlessly (Genesis 4:12, 14). The context determines which sense applies.
☩Protection for Runaway Slaves
Mosaic law uniquely protected fugitive slaves: 'Thou shalt not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee: He shall dwell with thee, even among you, in that place which he shall choose... thou shalt not oppress him' (Deuteronomy 23:15-16). This humanitarian provision stood in stark contrast to surrounding nations' laws. Shimei's servants fled to Gath (1 Kings 2:39). Onesimus, a runaway slave, was converted through Paul (Philemon 1).
☩Notable Fugitives
Scripture records many notable fugitives. Cain was condemned to be 'a fugitive and a vagabond' in the earth (Genesis 4:12-14). Moses fled from Pharaoh to Midian (Exodus 2:15). David fled from Saul to the Philistines (1 Samuel 21:10). Absalom fled to Geshur after killing Amnon (2 Samuel 13:34-38). Jeroboam fled to Egypt from Solomon (1 Kings 11:40). Joseph fled with Mary and Jesus to Egypt to escape Herod (Matthew 2:13-15). Each illustrates different circumstances prompting flight.