BIBLICAL RESPONSE TO THE PROBLEM OF HOMELESSNESS AND MIGRATION, A CASE STUDY IN KENYA

Abstract

Using Kenya as a case study, this article investigates how the Bible addresses migration and homelessness. The following questions guided the research: how Kenya relates to the commandment in Leviticus 19:33-34 to "love aliens as yourself," how homelessness and migration are related to Biblical migration, and how homelessness and migration are discussed as critical contemporary issues in Kenya. The methodology this study uses is the desktop study through the reader response, socio-historical criticism, and literary criticism. The study reveals that globalization has become a significant factor in human migration due to its ease of communication and travel. Wars such as the RussianUkrainian War, insecurity, pandemics, conflicts, xenophobic attacks in countries are some of the causes of migration that result to homelessness. The study cited a number of local proverbs and tales that demonstrate locals' love for migrants and asylum seekers. Communities such as the Luo and Kikuyu were mentioned. The main passage from the Bible that served as the study's primary source was Leviticus 19:33–34. The study recommends that the churches, NGOs, FBOs and the Kenya government should work collaboratively to integrate Migrants and the Homeless into the society.