The answer is: 3

Deut 4:41-43

In Deuteronomy 4:41-43, we read about the establishment of three cities of refuge located on the east side of the Jordan River: Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan. These cities were designed with compassion in mind, providing a sanctuary for those who accidentally caused harm to another. The divine intent behind these cities underscores a commitment to justice, mixed with mercy—giving individuals a chance to escape from the wrath of the victim's family until a fair trial could determine their fate.

Curiously, the concept of refuge isn't limited to these three cities; it’s echoed throughout the Bible. In Numbers 35, for example, the cities of refuge take center stage once again, highlighting their importance in ensuring that justice wasn’t merely a tool of vengeance but reflected balance. These cities served as profound symbols of God's mercy, a soft historical jab at ongoing debates over justice that resonate in today's discussions around rehabilitation versus punishment.

Additionally, it’s fascinating to note that these cities often demonstrate a structure of inclusion among God’s people, despite providing separate identities based on their geographical locations. The arrangement also reminds us of a broader theological element: that everyone is afforded the opportunity for refuge and compassion, regardless of their status or past actions. Such principles may urge us to consider how places of refuge manifest imaginatively in our communities today!