The answer is: 3

Deut 4:41-43

In Deuteronomy 4:41-43, the cities of refuge become a sanctuary for those in peril—places where unintentionally manslaughterers could hide from revenge. On the eastern side of the Jordan River, there were three such cities: Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan. Each city fulfilled a significant role, ensuring those who needed protection could find it. What's intriguing about this arrangement is the concept of mercy and justice presented here; refuge was offered not just to avoid punishment but also to emphasize the idea of fair trial and understanding the circumstances behind someone’s actions.

Dig deeper, and you’ll find parallels in various cultures and legal systems throughout history, underscoring a universal need for places of asylum, sanctuary during peril, and the fundamental notion that accidents don't warrant the strictest of earthly penalties. Fun fact: The idea of cities of refuge can be related to modern concepts, like witness protection programs, where individuals can find safety while justice is painstakingly served.

The cities didn’t just protect individuals; they symbolized a larger societal value—indicating that crime’s repercussions should take context into account. So in a lot of ways, they represent a plea for compassion in times of strife, weaving a rich tapestry that connects human kindness across differing social histories throughout biblical times and beyond. How riveting that our quest for justice and fairness stretches through the ages, is still a topic of vital discussion, marked by stories of caution, accountability, and mercy.