Leviticus 19:33

Leviticus 19:33 (KJV) states, "And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him." This verse is a powerful command within the Old Testament's legal and ethical framework, emphasizing humane treatment towards non-native residents.

Context

This command is found within Leviticus chapter 19, often referred to as the "Holiness Code." This chapter outlines various laws that demonstrate what it means for Israel to be a holy nation, set apart for God. It covers a wide range of ethical and social responsibilities, from respecting parents and keeping the Sabbath to fair business practices and care for the poor. The instruction regarding the stranger (or resident alien) is nestled among commands that promote justice, compassion, and the sanctity of human relationships, reflecting God's own character and His expectations for His people.

Key Themes

• Compassion and Justice for the Vulnerable: The verse directly addresses the protection of the "stranger" (Hebrew: ger), who often lacked the tribal or familial protections afforded to native Israelites. It underscores God's concern for those who are marginalized or without inherent power within society.
• Remembering Israel's History: A recurring motif in the Pentateuch is the reminder to Israel that they themselves were once strangers and sojourners in the land of Egypt. This shared experience was meant to cultivate empathy and prevent them from inflicting the same oppression they had endured.
• God's Standard of Holiness: Treating the resident alien with justice and kindness was not merely a social nicety but a direct reflection of Israel's covenant relationship with a holy God. It was an integral part of living out their identity as His chosen people.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "stranger" here is ger, which typically refers to a resident alien or sojourner—someone who has settled in the land of Israel but is not a native-born Israelite. They were distinct from casual travelers or enemies. The word "vex" translates the Hebrew verb yanah, which means to oppress, afflict, mistreat, exploit, or wrong. It implies not just verbal annoyance but active injustice, economic exploitation, or physical harm. The command is a strong prohibition against any form of ill-treatment towards these vulnerable individuals.

Related Scriptures

This principle is reiterated and expanded upon throughout the Pentateuch. Immediately following this verse, Leviticus 19:34 commands the Israelites to "love him as thyself," further elevating the standard of treatment. Other passages like Exodus 22:21 and Deuteronomy 24:17 also strictly forbid oppressing the sojourner, often linking their welfare with that of the fatherless and the widow. In the New Testament, the spirit of this command finds resonance in Jesus' teaching on caring for the marginalized, as seen in the parable of the sheep and the goats, where welcoming the stranger is likened to welcoming Christ Himself.

Practical Application

For believers today, Leviticus 19:33 remains profoundly relevant. It calls us to extend hospitality, justice, and compassion to those who are new to our communities, whether they are immigrants, refugees, or simply newcomers. It challenges us to actively resist any form of prejudice, exploitation, or mistreatment of those who may be different from us or in a vulnerable position. The principle reminds us that our treatment of others, especially the stranger, is a reflection of our reverence for God and our understanding of His heart for all humanity.