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Many cultures have strong traditions of hospitality reinforced by legends of gods, goddesses, and angels disguised as mortals visiting people.
For
example, when Nausicaa found Odysseus washed up on the shore, she told him
"Odysseus, you shall not lack for clothing nor anything else, of those
gifts which should befall the unhappy suppliant on his arrival"
(6.191-193). Nausicaa cared for Odysseus
because it was a sacred duty to treat those in need as one would treat a
god.
The
two words, host and guest are derived from the same Indo-European root word and
are viewed as inseparable parts of the same reciprocal relationship. In Middle Eastern cultures hospitality is
also considered a sacred duty and honor.
Nomadic tribes in desert environments depended upon one another for
survival.
Recognition
of interdependence is at the heart of Jewish, Christian and Islamic practices
that cultivate a spirit of hospitality. Offering hospitality to a stranger is a
sacred act because it is a reflection of God who is all gracious, merciful and
generous. The holiness of hospitality
was codified in religious statutes within the Mosaic Laws.
The
parables of Jesus Christ teach how humanity ought to treat strangers and
sojourners. This is not simply a matter
of the rich justly providing for those who are less fortunate. Nor is it a call to set up a business that
provides hospitality for profit. All are
expected to share from what they have in order make strangers feel
welcome.
