The emigrants in the O. T.

Abstract

The article describes the vision of the Old Testament books with regard to emigrants. Firstly, the Old Testament bears witness to the consciousness of the people of Israel that their ancestors were emigrants and that the people of Israel themselves were emigrants not only in Egypt but also in the land of Canaan. In reference to those living as emigrants or refugees in Israel, the key idea is that Israelis should refrain from oppressing them. Orphans and widows shall be provided for on a regular basis. And two reasons are adduced: Israelis should not oppress emigrants because they too were in the same predicament in Egypt and because God is the avenger of emigrants. Lastly, the texts favor the integration of emigrants into the congregation of Israel so long as they freely embrace the Israelite faith.