Day 11 of 1461

Teaching

“You shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the feelings of the stranger, having yourselves been strangers in the land of Egypt.”

— Exodus 23:9 (Jewish Torah)

Significance

This verse from Exodus is one of the most powerful moral teachings in Jewish tradition. It commands compassion for immigrants and outsiders by reminding the Jewish people of their own history of oppression. It doesn’t just say “be nice”—it says “remember.” Remember what it felt like to be vulnerable, powerless, and treated unfairly. That memory becomes the foundation of justice.

In today’s world, when immigrants—many fleeing danger or hardship—are rounded up and locked in maximum security prisons, we must ask ourselves: are we living up to the values of this teaching? These people are not criminals; they are human beings seeking safety and hope. Treating them with cruelty goes against the heart of this commandment. To honor this teaching is to protect the dignity of all who are displaced, no matter where they come from or why they came.

Affirmation

I open my heart to the stranger. I choose justice, not fear. I will not forget what it means to be vulnerable, and I will protect the dignity of all who seek refuge.