Embracing Strangers: The Compassionate Call of Leviticus 19:33-34

When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.Leviticus 19:33-34

In a world marked by division and exclusion, Leviticus 19:33-34 calls us to a radical inclusivity and kindness that transcends cultural and national boundaries. This ancient command remains profoundly relevant, urging us to view and treat every person with dignity and compassion.

Essence

Leviticus 19:33-34 is a powerful directive from God to the Israelites, emphasizing ethical treatment of foreigners. It instructs us to avoid mistreatment and actively embrace the foreigner as one would love oneself. This commandment highlights the importance of empathy and reminds us of our shared humanity.

Understanding ‘Foreigner’ (גֵּר, ger)

The Hebrew word for “foreigner” in this passage is גֵּר (ger), pronounced “gair.” This term refers to a stranger or someone not a native of the land. It encompasses anyone living outside their traditional home or community, highlighting their vulnerability and the community’s responsibility towards them. Understanding this term enhances our appreciation for this commandment’s inclusive and protective spirit.

Historical Context

During the time these laws were given, the Israelites had experienced life as foreigners in Egypt, where they were oppressed. This historical backdrop makes the command particularly poignant, rooted in empathy and the shared experience of being strangers in a foreign land. The directive to love the foreigner as oneself is not just about charity but about remembering one’s past and extending the compassion one wishes to receive. This shared experience of being a foreigner should invoke a deep sense of empathy in us, urging us to treat every foreigner with the same compassion we would want for ourselves.

Modern-Day Reflections

Today, these verses challenge us to consider how we treat those from different places seeking safety, opportunity, or community. It pushes us to question our attitudes towards immigrants, refugees, and others considered outsiders in our societies. In an era where xenophobia and discrimination are rampant, the call to love and treat foreigners as ourselves is not just a call to compassion, but a radical act of compassion and justice. It inspires us to look beyond differences and embrace our shared humanity, and to stand up against injustice and discrimination.

Discussion

Reflecting on Leviticus 19:33-34 invites us to examine our attitudes and behaviors towards those different. Are we welcoming and inclusive, or do we harbor biases and prejudices? This verse challenges us to move beyond mere tolerance and actively embrace and support those vulnerable and marginalized.

The command to love the foreigner as oneself highlights the importance of empathy and understanding. It calls us to remember our vulnerabilities and extend the kindness and support we would want if we were in a similar situation. By embracing this directive, we create a more inclusive and compassionate community.

Furthermore, this verse underscores the importance of action in our faith. It is not enough to hold inclusive beliefs; we must also demonstrate them through actions. By actively supporting and welcoming those different from us, we live out the values of love and justice central to our faith. This emphasis on action should empower us to make a difference in our communities and in the lives of those who need our support.

Practical Application

• Support Refugees and Immigrants: Donate to organizations that provide support and resources to refugees and immigrants.
• Volunteer Locally: Offer your time and skills to local organizations that assist immigrants and refugees in your community.
• Foster Inclusive Relationships: Make an effort to build relationships with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Weekly Challenge

This week, challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and connect with someone from a different background or culture. Engage in a conversation, attend a cultural event, or volunteer your time. By doing so, you not only learn about their experiences but also enhance your own understanding and empathy, aligning with the teachings of Leviticus 19:33-34.

Additional Verses

Deuteronomy 10:19: Reinforces the command to love foreigners, reminding the Israelites of their own experiences in Egypt.

Hebrews 13:2: Encourages hospitality to strangers, noting that by doing so, some have entertained angels without knowing it.