'there had been previous enmity between the parties' (verse 5b, cf. Deuteronomy 19:4b, Num 35:23b).The provision that the refugee must remain in that city of refuge until the death of the high priest at that period of time (verse 6b) may be intended to set a time-limit on the stalemate produced by a verdict of innocent, which nevertheless cannot revoke the principle right of blood vengeance (Numbers 35:27c).

Designation of Cities of Refuge (20:7-9)

The designated cities of refuge,

1.Previous
3.Next