Asylum has gained significant attention in recent biblical law studies, particularly regarding its relevance to the ongoing migrant crisis. However, interpretations of the biblical practice of asylum vary, particularly regarding the origin of the cities of refuge in Numbers 35 and Deuteronomy 19. Three main perspectives can be identified. Some scholars argue that the cities of refuge are an institutionalized continuation of Ancient Near Eastern practice. Others contend that while the altar asylum in Exodus 21 reflects ancient customs, the cities of refuge represent a secularization of this practice. Again others suggest that the cities of refuge should be viewed through a theological lens, closely tied to the Exodus event. This paper evaluates these interpretations and discusses how the priestly notions of this law have been neglected, especially in the second view.