THE STRANGER IS YOU: A BIBLICAL FRAMEWORK FOR A COMMON WAY FORWARD IN THE AMERICAN MIGRANT MEMBERSHIP DEBATE

Abstract

This paper argues that the Pentateuch contains a normative account of migrant membership useful for American politics today. This account has a solid basis, remains feasible today, and is compatible with existing rights. In particular, the Pentateuch protects both strangers and natives through a scheme of proportional yet differentiated rights and duties. Americans should read the Pentateuch, and treat it as a document with a coherent normative teaching. A renewed interest in an ancient worldview offers a way forward in a moment dangerously low on common ground.