ASYLUM, a sanctuary, or place of refuge, where criminals shelter themselves from the hands of justice. The asyla of altars and temples were very ancient; and likewise those of tombs, statues, and other monuments of considerable personages: Thus, the temple of Diana at Ephesus was a refuge for debtors, the tomb of Theseus for slaves. The Jews had their asyla; the most remarkable of which were, the six cities of refuge, the temple, and the altar of burnt-offerings.