The Bible provides numerous directives concerning the treatment of foreigners, widows, and orphans, reflecting God's concern for justice, compassion, and social responsibility. These laws are primarily found in the Old Testament, particularly within the Pentateuch, and are reiterated in various forms throughout the Scriptures.

Foreigners (Sojourners, Aliens):

The treatment of foreigners, often referred to as sojourners or aliens, is a significant theme in the Mosaic Law. The Israelites are repeatedly reminded of their own history as foreigners in Egypt, which serves as a basis for their ethical treatment of non-Israelites residing among them. In Exodus 22:21, the command is clear: "You must not exploit or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt." This directive is reiterated in Leviticus 19:33-34: "When a foreigner resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. You must treat the foreigner living among you as native-born and love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God."

The law extends beyond mere non-oppression to active inclusion and care. Deuteronomy 10:18-19 emphasizes God's love for the foreigner, stating, "He executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and He loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing. So you also must love the foreigner, since you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt."

Widows and Orphans:

Widows and orphans are frequently mentioned in the context of social justice and care for the vulnerable. The Bible underscores God's special concern for these groups, as they often lacked the protection and provision typically afforded by a male head of household in ancient society. Exodus 22:22-24 warns, "You must not mistreat any widow or orphan. If you do mistreat them, and they cry out to Me in distress, I will surely hear their cry. My anger will be kindled, and I will kill you with the sword; then your wives will become widows and your children fatherless."

The law not only prohibits mistreatment but also mandates proactive care. Deuteronomy 14:28-29 instructs the Israelites to set aside a portion of their produce every third year for the Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widows, ensuring their sustenance: "Then the Levite, because he has no portion or inheritance among you, the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow within your gates may come and eat and be satisfied. And the LORD your God will bless you in all the work of your hands."

Prophetic and Wisdom Literature:

The prophetic books and wisdom literature of the Old Testament continue to echo these themes. The prophets often rebuke Israel for failing to uphold justice for the marginalized. Isaiah 1:17 exhorts, "Learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor. Defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow." Similarly, Jeremiah 22:3 commands, "This is what the LORD says: Do justice and righteousness. Rescue the victim of robbery from the hand of his oppressor. Do not exploit or mistreat the foreigner, the fatherless, or the widow."

In the New Testament, the principles of caring for the vulnerable are reaffirmed. James 1:27 defines pure religion as "to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world."

These biblical laws and teachings underscore a consistent divine mandate for justice, compassion, and care for the vulnerable, reflecting God's character and His desire for His people to embody these values in their communities.