What Does the Bible Say About Immigrants and Strangers?
What Does the Bible Say About Immigrants and Strangers? God repeatedly commanded Israel to treat foreigners with kindness, remembering that they too were once strangers in Egypt.
Key verse: Leviticus 19:34 (KJV)
God repeatedly commanded Israel to treat foreigners with kindness, remembering that they too were once strangers in Egypt.
God repeatedly commanded Israel to treat foreigners with kindness, remembering that they too were once strangers in Egypt.
"But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God." — Leviticus 19:34 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
Cross-reference scriptures
The Biblical Answer
The Hebrew word 'ger' (sojourner/stranger) appears over 90 times in the Old Testament, and God's instructions are remarkably consistent: treat the foreigner with justice and compassion. Israel was commanded to love the stranger as themselves because they knew what it was like to be foreigners in Egypt. The gleaning laws specifically provided food for strangers. God declared that He loves the stranger and gives them food and clothing. Ruth, a Moabite immigrant, became an ancestor of King David and Jesus Himself. In the New Testament, Jesus taught that caring for strangers is equivalent to caring for Him. The book of Hebrews reminds believers to show hospitality to strangers, as some have unknowingly entertained angels.
Key Scripture References
"But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God."
"Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt."
"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
What Does the Bible Say About Hospitality?
The Bible commands believers to practice hospitality, welcoming strangers, fellow saints, and the needy with generous, loving openness.
Who Was Ruth in the Bible?
Ruth was a Moabite woman who chose to follow her Israelite mother-in-law Naomi and worship the God of Israel. She married Boaz and became the great-grandmother of King David.
What Does the Bible Say About Love?
The Bible defines love not as a feeling but as a sacrificial choice — modeled perfectly by God's gift of His Son.
How Do You Forgive Others According to the Bible?
Biblical forgiveness means releasing bitterness and choosing not to hold someone's offense against them — just as God in Christ forgave us.
What Does the Bible Say About Money?
The Bible doesn't condemn money itself but warns against the love of money and teaches generosity, contentment, and wise stewardship.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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Read it in context
The answer above sits inside Leviticus. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read Leviticus on day 34 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
Every verse quoted in “What Does the Bible Say About Immigrants and Strangers?” comes from the King James Version, free to download and print.
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