The requirements regarding the place and victim are symbolic. The heifer represented the murderer, at least to the extent that it died in his place…

Deuteronomy 21:1–9. UNDETECTED HOMICIDES.

If one is found slain — It is remarkable th…

And it shall be, that the city which is next unto the slain
man
And so suspected, as …

If a murderer could not be discovered, a solemn ceremony is prescribed for removing the guilt from the land, as an expression of dread and detestat…