The U.S. as the “New Jerusalem?” Revelation’s Influence on Immigration
Nov 26, 2024
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Dr. Yijan Lin, an expert in the intersection of biblical texts and immigration, delves into how the Book of Revelation has influenced American perspectives on immigration. He discusses the portrayal of the U.S. as the 'New Jerusalem' and its implications for national identity. The conversation reveals how biblical imagery has shaped exclusionary immigration policies, especially against Chinese immigrants. Lin also connects historical stigmas with contemporary issues, highlighting a need for a reimagined narrative that embraces inclusivity.
The Book of Revelation has historically been utilized to demonize immigrants and frame the U.S. as a New Jerusalem sanctuary.
Dr. Lin discusses how biblical imagery and themes shape contemporary narratives around immigration, reflecting dual perceptions of purity versus otherness.
Deep dives
Intersection of Immigration and Revelation
The podcast discusses how the Book of Revelation has influenced American perceptions of immigration throughout history. It highlights that Revelation has often been used to both demonize immigrants and depict the United States as a new Jerusalem, portraying it as a sanctuary that must be protected. The guest, Dr. Yijan Lin, explains how this intersection arose from her own experiences and academic background, prompting her to explore the metaphor of immigration as a form of apocalyptic entry into a promised land. The historical context of these ideas is crucial, as they shape both the narrative of the immigrant experience and the American identity.
Representation of Immigrants in Revelation
The podcast explores how displacement and migration are implicit themes within Revelation, framing them through the lens of exodus and new beginnings. Dr. Lin discusses the contrast between those who are portrayed as chosen and clean versus those depicted as enemies of God, emphasizing a duality that resonates with contemporary narratives about immigrants. This representation creates a stark divide, where the pure are welcomed into the New Jerusalem while the demonized are viewed as outsiders. Such themes are mirrored in the historical treatment of immigrants, who are often categorized in a similar manner.
New Jerusalem as Political Metaphor
Dr. Lin elaborates on the New Jerusalem metaphor and its significant role in shaping America's self-image as an exceptional nation. This concept has been tied to the idea of American exceptionalism, where the U.S. is seen as a divine refuge, but it has also evolved into a narrative that justifies exclusionary immigration policies. The idea of the U.S. as a shining city on a hill has been explicitly referenced by political leaders, strengthening the association between biblical texts and national identity. However, this metaphor has also been manipulated to reinforce political agendas that advocate for the defense of 'chosen' status against perceived threats.
Impact of Biblical Discourse on Immigration Policy
The conversation delves into the historical context of how biblical language and imagery have informed U.S. immigration policy, particularly through discriminatory practices rooted in Revelation. Specific examples include the treatment of Chinese immigrants during the late 19th century, where rhetoric likened them to enemies of God and depicted them as carriers of disease. This xenophobic language not only justified exclusionary laws but also mirrored the apocalyptic imagery found in scripture. The podcast connects this historical narrative to modern issues surrounding immigration, illustrating how these motifs remain relevant today in shaping public attitudes and political discourse.
As you can probably tell from my incredibly strong accent, I (Megan) am an immigrant to the United States. As such, the US immigration system has been a rather large feature in my adult life…but I’ve never before considered the relationship between American immigration and the Bible, or more specifically, the book of Revelation.
It’s never really occurred to me that such a relationship even exists. In contrast, my guest today has written an entire - and absolutely fascinating - book on the subject, and we’re going to be diving right into it!
We’ll be exploring how Revelation has been used throughout US history to categorize, demonize, and vilify immigrants, while also painting the US as the New Jerusalem, sanctuary for God’s chosen, which must be defended at all costs.
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