ASYLUM*

Place of refuge where a fugitive from justice is immune to arrest or retribution; also, the protection afforded by such a place. An equivalent term is “sanctuary” (originally meaning “holy place”), from the ancient custom of seeking asylum at an altar or in a temple. Thus Adonijah (1 Kgs 1:50-53) and Joab (1 Kgs 2:28-31) both sought sanctuary from King Solomon at the altar of the tabernacle. In the law of Moses asylum was provided through the establishment of cities of refuge. See Cities of Refuge.