On the Significance of Religion in Immigration Policy

The pervasive role religion plays in immigration policy is universally acknowledged but not well understood. On the Significance of Religion for Immigration Policy explores the ways in which religion affects immigration policy focusing on two Abrahamic religions: Christianity and Judaism. This cutting-edge volume: Makes sense of the varied roles played by two Abrahamic religions in immigration policy and practice. Shows how distinguishing between religion as belief/practice and religion as national identity can serve as a heuristic tool in understanding how religion affects immigration policy. Investigates scriptural passages relevant to immigration, their reception history, and how they have been used to justify diverse policies. Uses case studies to provide an overview of the complex and varied religious responses to immigrants. Offers policy implications for understanding the religious impact on immigration for policymakers, practitioners, and academics. Applying cutting-edge research to concrete situations, this volume provides an accessible and concise overview suitable for academics, policy makers and practitioners alike, building a common platform of understanding of how some of the major world religions treat the stranger in both theory and practice.