Assign
The Biblical Meaning of Assign
The English word "assign" in the Bible translates the Hebrew word "nathan," which broadly means to give, grant, appoint, or set in place. While the word appears infrequently in English translations, the concept of assigning, designating, or appointing runs throughout Scripture, reflecting the exercise of authority in distributing responsibilities, territories, and positions.
Assigning Cities of Refuge
One of the most significant uses of "assign" occurs in Joshua 20:8, where Moses designated (assigned) three cities of refuge on the east side of the Jordan River. These cities, Bezer, Ramoth in Gilead, and Golan, were set apart as places where a person who accidentally killed someone could flee for protection from the avenger of blood (Deuteronomy 4:41-43). This act of assigning reflected God's concern for justice and mercy, ensuring that those who killed without intent would not suffer disproportionate retribution. The cities of refuge were distributed throughout the land so that they would be accessible from any location (Numbers 35:9-15).
Joab's Dark Assignment
A starkly different use of assigning appears in 2 Samuel 11:16, where Joab stationed Uriah the Hittite at a dangerous position in battle against the city of Rabbah. This was done at King David's command, who sought to have Uriah killed so he could take Bathsheba as his wife (2 Samuel 11:14-15). Joab's assignment of Uriah to a place of mortal peril represents a profound corruption of authority, using the power to position people for evil rather than good. The same Hebrew word "nathan" that described Moses's righteous designation of cities of refuge here describes a murderous plot.
Divine Assignment and Human Authority
Throughout Scripture, God is the ultimate assigner. He assigned Adam to tend the garden (Genesis 2:15), assigned the Levites their role in temple service (Numbers 8:19), and assigned the tribes their territorial inheritances (Joshua 13-21). Human leaders who assign roles and responsibilities are acting as stewards of God's authority. When this power is used justly, as in the case of the cities of refuge, it reflects God's character. When it is abused, as in Joab's positioning of Uriah, it brings divine judgment.
The Responsibility of Those Who Assign
The contrast between the two primary uses of "assign" in Scripture offers a sobering lesson about leadership and authority. Those entrusted with the power to place others in positions of service, danger, or responsibility bear a serious obligation before God. The prophet Nathan's confrontation of David after the Uriah incident (2 Samuel 12:1-14) demonstrates that God holds leaders accountable for how they exercise their authority to assign and direct others.
Biblical Context
The word 'assign' appears in Joshua 20:8 regarding Moses's designation of cities of refuge east of the Jordan (paralleled in Deuteronomy 4:41-43), and in 2 Samuel 11:16 where Joab positioned Uriah in battle at David's command. Both translate the Hebrew 'nathan' but illustrate vastly different uses of authority.
Theological Significance
The biblical concept of assigning teaches that authority to position and direct others is a divine trust. When exercised justly, as in establishing cities of refuge, it reflects God's mercy and justice. When corrupted, as in Uriah's death, it invites divine judgment. This duality reveals that every exercise of authority is ultimately accountable to God, who is the supreme assigner of all roles and positions.
Historical Background
The cities of refuge were an ancient Israelite institution designed to prevent blood feuds by providing sanctuary for those who killed accidentally. This system was unique in the ancient Near East, where blood vengeance was often unregulated. The siege of Rabbah, where Uriah was killed, took place during David's wars against the Ammonites around 1000 BC. Archaeological evidence from both Transjordanian sites and Rabbah (modern Amman) confirm the military contexts described in these passages.