What does the Bible say about being a city of refuge?

Throughout scripture, Jerusalem is depicted as a city of refuge, a place where God's presence resides and where His people gather for worship. Nehemiah’s rebuilding of the wall symbolizes restoration and protection, illustrating how Christ serves as our ultimate refuge. In Him, believers find safety from sin and the wrath of God, embodying the mercy seat where God meets His people (Exodus 25:22, Psalm 46:1). For Christians, this understanding emphasizes the security we have in Christ as our shelter, both in this life and in the afterlife.