How many cities of refuge were on the east side of Jordan?

In Deuteronomy 4:41-43, we discover the provision for three cities of refuge established on the east side of the Jordan River—Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan. These cities held a unique purpose in ancient Israel's legal system. If someone accidentally killed another person, they could flee to one of these cities to avoid the avenger of blood until a trial could take place. It highlights the justice system wherein intention and negligence were taken into account.

The significance of these cities resonates with an enduring theme in the Scriptures—a strong emphasis on mercy and protection for those in distress. In many cultures, ancient or modern, variations of "sanctuary" or "refuge" exist. They act as reminders of a stakeholder's responsibility to prioritize humanity over the hastiness of revenge—not dissimilar from the concept of asylum seen today.

Interestingly, as Israelites fled to these spinning hubs of mercy, the Levites—who traditionally had no territorial holdings—were prominent victims of these protections. Their connection to God and people's values illustrates a relational network that fostered community responsibility and compassion.

Another interesting echo from scripture connects these ancient cities to New Testament concepts of grace and forgiveness. For instance, as refugees sought protection, so does everyone who seeks refuge in spiritual terms—often within the numerous messages of love portrayed throughout biblical narratives. Each city stands as a beacon of divine mercy, a lesson enduring through the ages about the refuge found in fairness and justice as we intersect with society and each other.