Bible Verse Lookup
Ex 23:9
Chapter 23
9
Do not oppress a stranger; you know what it is to be a stranger, for that is what you were in the land of Egypt.
Do not oppress a stranger; you know what it is to be a stranger, for that is what you were in the land of Egypt.
Commentaries
Judicial Legislation.
This section mixes laws covering fair treatment in courts (1-3, 6-8) with proper actions when an enemy’s animals are lost or in danger (4f). The focus should be on caring for the poor (6) and the innocent (7f); the emigrant, often in a vulnerable position, is a key example. The Israelites would have been familiar with the struggles of emigrants, having experienced them themselves in Egypt (9). This sets the standard for showing mercy and justice to those in need.