This compilation of resources offers citations highlighting the enduring Jewish value of welcoming the stranger, alongside prefabricated text studies designed for group learning in congregational and other small group settings. Each text is paired with guiding questions to spark meaningful discussion and reflection. These materials invite participants to explore how Jewish tradition speaks to contemporary issues of displacement. Whether you’re leading a study session or engaging in personal learning, these resources are intended to deepen understanding and inspire action.
Holiday-specific text studies can be found under Jewish Holiday Resources.
Resources
If you want to assemble your own text study or are seeking references within Jewish tradition about the value of welcoming the stranger, HIAS’ Refugee Torah is designed as a one-stop deposit for these texts.
Explores xenophobic strains of thought within our own tradition, how to understand, contextualize, and overcome them.
Explores the toolkit of responses to xenophobic policy as reflected through interpretations of the Israelite encounter with Edomites when wandering in the wilderness.
Explores how the origins of Jewish tradition are grounded in experiences of migration and how that permeates the Jewish outlook on the world.
The story of Joseph being sold into slavery reflects the experience, conditions, and psychology of contemporary victims of human trafficking – particularly across international borders.
These three words used in a central recitation in ancient prayers and in our Passover seder are not at all clear in their intent. This text study explores the implications of different interpretations.
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Global CommunityRefugee Shabbat
HIAS’ Refugee Shabbat is an opportunity to recognize the profound impact of the global Jewish movement working on behalf of displaced people.
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