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.
The foreigner who lives among you should be treated just like someone who was born in your country, and you should love them as much as you love yourself. Remember, you were once foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God.
God is commanding His people to treat immigrants and foreigners with the same love and respect they would want for themselves, remembering their own experience as outsiders in Egypt.
📚 Historical Context
God gave this command to the Israelites through Moses as part of the holiness code in Leviticus. The Israelites had recently been freed from slavery in Egypt, where they had lived as foreigners for over 400 years. This law was meant to shape how they would treat non-Israelites who chose to live among them in the Promised Land, ensuring they wouldn't become oppressors like the Egyptians had been to them.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.