Foreigners / Sojourners

,

1. Name / Role

Foreigners / Sojourners (also referred to as strangers, aliens, or resident foreigners)

2. Category

Vulnerable and Marginalised Groups

3. Time Period / Biblical Context

Foreigners and sojourners are present throughout the Bible, from the patriarchal period through to the New Testament. The concept is particularly prominent in the Mosaic Law, the historical narratives of Israel, the prophetic literature, and various teachings of Jesus and the apostles.

4. Origin / Background

Foreigners and sojourners were non-Israelites living temporarily or permanently in the land of Israel. They often lacked kinship ties, land inheritance, or tribal identity. As a result, they were socially and economically vulnerable. Israel’s own history of being sojourners in Egypt shaped its legal and moral responsibility to treat foreigners with compassion and equity (Exodus 22:21).

5. Primary Role / Function

Sojourners could serve in labour, trade, military assistance (e.g., mercenaries), or religious conversion contexts. While some assimilated into Israelite life through covenant (e.g., proselytes), others remained distinct ethnically and religiously. In the broader theological narrative, they represented humanity’s longing for a true homeland and God’s inclusive concern for all nations.

6. Key Characteristics / Traits

  • Lacked legal protections unless granted by covenant or community
  • Often marginalised or exploited in society
  • Dependent on hospitality and justice from locals
  • Sometimes converted to worship the God of Israel
  • Symbolised both literal outsiders and spiritual seekers

7. Symbolism / Spiritual Significance

Foreigners and sojourners symbolise human transience, inclusion, and divine compassion. God repeatedly commands Israel to love and protect the foreigner, reflecting His universal care. Spiritually, believers are called “strangers and pilgrims on the earth” (Hebrews 11:13), pointing to their ultimate citizenship in heaven. The inclusion of foreigners foreshadows the gospel’s extension to all peoples.

8. Notable Figures / Examples

  • Ruth – A Moabite widow who became part of Israel’s lineage through faith and loyalty (Ruth 1–4)
  • Rahab – A Canaanite woman who protected Israelite spies and joined God’s people (Joshua 2; Matthew 1:5)
  • Uriah the Hittite – A foreign soldier in David’s army, known for his integrity (2 Samuel 11)
  • The “mixed multitude” – Non-Israelites who left Egypt with the Israelites (Exodus 12:38)
  • The Syrophoenician woman – A Gentile who expressed faith in Jesus (Mark 7:24–30)

9. Related Bible References

  • Exodus 22:21; Leviticus 19:33–34 – Commands to not oppress foreigners and to love them as oneself
  • Deuteronomy 10:18–19 – God loves the foreigner and provides for them
  • Isaiah 56:3–8 – God welcomes foreigners who keep His covenant
  • Matthew 25:35 – Welcoming the stranger as a sign of true discipleship
  • Hebrews 13:2 – “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers”
  • Ephesians 2:12–19 – Gentiles once far off now brought near in Christ

10. Summary / Reflection

Foreigners and sojourners hold a deeply ethical and theological place in Scripture. Their treatment is a test of a society’s justice and a reflection of God’s inclusive love. The Law, Prophets, and Gospel all affirm their dignity and potential inclusion in God’s covenant family. For believers today, these figures challenge cultural barriers and call for hospitality, empathy, and a remembrance of our shared spiritual exile—awaiting our true home in God’s eternal Kingdom.

Home