Refuge
In Scripture, refuge is a picture of safety and protection found in God. It expresses trust in the Lord as the secure shelter of his people in danger, trouble, or judgment.
At a Glance
In Scripture, refuge is a picture of safety and protection found in God. It expresses trust in the Lord as the secure shelter of his people in danger, trouble, or judgment.
Description
In biblical theology, refuge refers chiefly to the safety, protection, and security that God provides for those who turn to him in faith. The Psalms especially speak of the Lord as a refuge, meaning he is a sure shelter in times of fear, oppression, suffering, and threat. This language is not merely emotional; it expresses covenant confidence that God is faithful to defend, sustain, and ultimately save his people according to his will. Scripture also uses the word in a more concrete legal sense in the cities of refuge established in Israel, where a person accused of manslaughter could find temporary protection pending proper judgment. That historical institution should not be confused with the broader theological theme, though it contributes to the Bible’s larger portrayal of God as protector and righteous judge.