Migrants and Refugees from a Biblical and Ecclesial Point of View

The Hebrew word ger (plural gerim) usually translated as sojourner or immigrant refers to aliens who settled in the land of Israel. Gerim enjoyed a very special status with profound respect and hospitality. They were under the constant protection of Yahweh (Deut. 10:18) and were often associated with the poor in Israel, the orphan and the widow (Deut. 14: 29). They were invited to participate in the national festivities (Deut.16: 11). They were treated with the same justice as the Israelites (Deut 24: 7). Gradually they were also integrated (Deut. 23: 8). The reason behind this supporting attitude is that “Israel was also once a sojourner in Egypt” (Deut. 5:14). The highest expression of the attitude of Israel toward the gerim is presented by Leviticus: “If stranger lives with you in your land, do not mistreat him. You must count him as one of your own countrymen and love him as yourself for you were once strangers yourselves in Egypt” (19:33f). Similarly, Exodus 22:21 says, “You shall not wrong a sojourner or oppress him, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt.” Thus, the Old Testament teaches fair treatment of foreigners and openness to integrate them. The laws were common to both Israelites and new settlers.

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