What Does the Torah Say About Immigration?

While criticized for their silence regarding the rape of Dinah, the discussion and reasoning of the residents of Shechem, when deciding whether to admit Yaacov and his family are put forth at full length. It appears we can learn what sensible immigration policy consists of. By the way, the fact the king had to get their permission, is why they are held culpable for his son’s previous actions with Dinah.

These were the (convincing) points made (Bereishis 34:20, and onwards):

  1. The land is spacious.
  2. The incomers are merchants, not bums.
  3. They are not enemies.
  4. We see no problem with intermarriage — it is actually desirable.

So, the opposite not…

(Without delving into the technical halacha of “Chezkas Hayishuv“. Also, see this interesting piece by Yehuda Segal.)