Jewish ethics and international migrations

Abstract

Jews developed a distinct ethical approach to the question of dealing with strangers in society. Examples are provided from Jewish ethical literature to illuminate this attitude and its practice. This paper touches on the Jewish migratory experience in the last 2,000 years and their acceptance in Christian and Muslim countries. Note is taken of the concept of "refuge," which was created by the Hebrew Bible and has had a significant influence on the Sanctuary Movement. The essay concludes with a personal observation, based on the author's life experience.