Overview
Jokneam (also spelled Jokmeam) was one of the forty-eight Levitical cities established throughout Israel's territories. Located in the hill country of Zebulun, it was designated specifically for the Merarite Levites and their livestock. As a city of refuge, it provided asylum for those who committed unintentional manslaughter, protecting them from the avenger of blood until proper judicial examination could occur.
Key Scriptures
"And out of the tribe of Zebulun, Jokneam with its pasture lands and Kartah with its pasture lands and Dimona with its pasture lands and Nahalal with its pasture lands: four cities." (1 Chronicles 6:73, ESV)
"And the LORD said to Moses, 'Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, When you cross the Jordan into the land of Canaan, then you shall select cities to be cities of refuge for you, that the manslayer who kills any person without intent may flee there." (Numbers 35:10-11, ESV)
Application
Reflect on how God's provision of refuge cities demonstrates His mercy toward those guilty of unintentional sin, pointing us toward Christ as our ultimate refuge.