The answer is: Accidental murder

Josh 20:3

The cities of refuge mentioned in Joshua 20 serve an intriguing purpose — they establish a sanctuary for those who unintentionally commit homicide. This provision signifies a striking notion of mercy alongside the seriousness with which the community handles justice. Mosaic Law differentiated between intentional murder and accidental homicide, reflecting an understanding of human fallibility and the value of preserving life. It wasn’t just about punishing actions, but also about recognizing the complexities of human circumstances.

Interesting tidbit: the cities of refuge had to be easily accessible along the major roadways. This really emphasizes the importance of ensuring that fugitives could reach safety promptly, underscoring the community’s responsibility to provide avenues for mercy amidst the gravity of the law.

Those identified as "fugitives" were allowed to stay in these cities until their case was brought to trial, where a defender could present their side of the story. This generated a balanced response from society toward unintended harm, showcasing a commitment to both justice and compassion.

In another echo from Scripture, the concept of refuge and sanctuary crops up again throughout biblical texts, intertwined with themes of asylum, rest, and protection. For example, Psalm 46:1 refers to God as a refuge, and many see parallels conceptualizing humanity's need for a system where understanding and kindness coexist even amidst pain and wrongs. Overall, the idea encourages a viewed leniency and offers insights into the deeper values that shaped communal life in ancient Israel.