Asylum is a place of safety where a person fleeing from justice is protected from arrest or revenge. The word can also refer to the protection given by such a place.
This concept is similar to the term “sanctuary.” In ancient times, people would often run to altars or temples for protection. For example, Adonijah and Joab sought sanctuary from King Solomon at the altar of the tabernacle (1 Kings 1:50–53; 2:28–31). In the law of Moses, asylum was given through cities of refuge.
See Cities of Refuge.