Ancient wisdom for modern boundaries: Immigration, identity and loving your neighbor (Leviticus 19; Matthew 18)

Hallel Fellowship

Here are some highlights from this study focusing on the Golden Rule, first revealed from Heaven in the Torah reading קְדֹשִׁים Kedoshim/Qedoshim (Leviticus 19:1–20:26).

How does loving our neighbor relate to not hating in our hearts?

Hatred and resentment in one’s heart can damage relationships and lead to unloving actions. Leviticus 19:17–18 instructs not to hate fellow countrymen in one’s heart, because harboring inner hatred or taking vengeance can lead one away from God — to sin.

However, it’s important to reprove or correct others in a spirit of love, not condemnation. Loving one’s neighbor means caring enough about their spiritual well-being to gently point out wrongdoing, while also avoiding bearing grudges or making assumptions about their character. The goal is restoring fellowship, not punishment.

What can we learn from Israel’s history about caring for boundaries?

Personal boundaries reflect one’s identity in God and relationship with Him. When Israel stopped caring about being distinct from neighboring nations, it weakened their spiritual foundations.

National boundaries are an extension of shared personal boundaries among a people. If individuals do not care about boundaries with one another, it impacts unity and vulnerability as a nation.

Failure to maintain clear boundaries can lead to assimilation and loss of heritage over time. Israel blended in with other cultures rather than standing apart as God intended, contributing to their spiritual decline.

Strong boundaries protect against external influences that could compromise faith and values. When Israel did not zealously guard its boundaries, it became susceptible to idolatry and exile from its promised land.

Boundaries should not be about exclusion but distinction. God called Israel to be a light to other nations, not separate from them, so boundaries are for preserving identity and purity rather than isolation.