What does Leviticus 19:33-34 mean?
"When a stranger resides with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. The stranger who resides with you shall be to you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt; I am the Lord your God." - Leviticus 19:33-34

Leviticus 19:33-34 in the King James Version reads: "And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him. 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."
This particular passage from the book of Leviticus is part of the Holiness Code, a section of the Bible that provides guidelines for ethical living and moral conduct. These verses specifically address the treatment of strangers or foreigners who live among the Israelites.
The theme of hospitality and kindness to strangers is central to these verses. The Israelites are instructed not to mistreat or oppress foreigners who reside in their land. Instead, they are commanded to treat them with love and respect, just as they would their fellow countrymen. This reflects the broader theme of social justice and compassion for those who are marginalized or oppressed.
The context of Leviticus 19:33-34 is important for understanding its significance within the broader biblical narrative. The Israelites had themselves been strangers in the land of Egypt, where they experienced oppression and hardship. As a result, they are reminded to empathize with the plight of foreigners and to extend hospitality and love towards them. This context underscores the importance of compassion and empathy, as well as the idea of treating others as one would want to be treated.
Symbolism is also present in these verses, particularly in the idea of the stranger being treated as one born among the Israelites. This symbolizes inclusion and acceptance, regardless of one's background or nationality. It reinforces the idea that all people are valued and deserving of love and respect, regardless of their differences.
The passage also serves as a moral and ethical guideline for how individuals and communities should interact with those who are perceived as outsiders. It emphasizes the importance of extending kindness and hospitality, rather than perpetuating prejudice or discrimination.
From a theological perspective, Leviticus 19:33-34 reflects the broader biblical theme of love and compassion. The command to love the stranger as oneself aligns with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, particularly the idea of loving one's neighbor as oneself. This passage highlights the moral imperative to treat others with empathy, kindness, and respect, reflecting the fundamental principles of love and justice that are central to the Christian faith.
In summary, Leviticus 19:33-34 provides a powerful ethical and moral guideline for how individuals and communities should interact with strangers and foreigners. It emphasizes the importance of extending hospitality and love, rather than perpetuating oppression or mistreatment. The passage serves as a reminder of the fundamental principles of love, compassion, and social justice that are central to the Judeo-Christian ethic. It challenges readers to consider how they treat those who may be perceived as different or "other," and to embody the values of empathy, kindness, and inclusion.
Have questions about Leviticus 19:33-34?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Leviticus 19:33-34 Artwork
Leviticus 19:33-34 - "When a stranger resides with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. The stranger who resides with you shall be to you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt; I am the Lord your God."
"When a stranger resides with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. The stranger who resides with you shall be to you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt; I am the Lord your God." - Leviticus 19:33-34
Leviticus 19:33 - "¶ And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him."
"¶ And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him." - Leviticus 19:33
Leviticus 19:34 - "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."
Numbers 33:34 - "And they removed from Jotbathah, and encamped at Ebronah."
Leviticus 23:33 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Leviticus 25:34 - "But the field of the suburbs of their cities may not be sold; for it is their perpetual possession."
Leviticus 14:33 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,"
Genesis 19-34
Exodus 34:33 - "And till Moses had done speaking with them, he put a vail on his face."
Genesis 19-33
Leviticus 27:34 - "These are the commandments, which the LORD commanded Moses for the children of Israel in mount Sinai."
2 Chronicles 34:19
2 Chronicles 34:19
"And they removed from Jotbathah, and encamped at Ebronah." - Numbers 33:34
Leviticus 22:33 - "That brought you out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: I am the LORD."
Luke 19:34 - "And they said, The Lord hath need of him."
Leviticus 8:34 - "As he hath done this day, so the LORD hath commanded to do, to make an atonement for you."
"¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying," - Leviticus 23:33
Leviticus 11:33 - "And every earthen vessel, whereinto any of them falleth, whatsoever is in it shall be unclean; and ye shall break it."
Leviticus 21:19 - "Or a man that is brokenfooted, or brokenhanded,"
Jeremiah 33:19 - "¶ And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah, saying,"
Numbers 33:19 - "And they departed from Rithmah, and pitched at Rimmon-parez."
Leviticus 15:33 - "And of her that is sick of her flowers, and of him that hath an issue, of the man, and of the woman, and of him that lieth with her that is unclean."
Job 34:33 - "Should it be according to thy mind? he will recompense it, whether thou refuse, or whether thou choose; and not I: therefore speak what thou knowest."
Proverbs 24:33-34 - "A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man."
Numbers 34:19 - "And the names of the men are these: Of the tribe of Judah, Caleb the son of Jephunneh."
Leviticus 6:19 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Leviticus 19:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"