Not to let them dwell in our land

This mitzvah prohibits granting idolaters permanent residence in Eretz Yisrael. The Torah stresses that their presence would inevitably influence Jews toward avodah zarah. Rambam codifies that idolaters may not settle in the Land unless they accept the Noahide laws. Sefer HaChinuch highlights the mitzvah as a safeguard to preserve the sanctity of Israel’s people and land. The Talmud distinguishes between temporary visits for business and permanent dwelling, with permanence being prohibited. This mitzvah underscores Israel’s unique covenantal identity, ensuring the Land remains a domain of pure worship of Hashem.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Sefer HaMitzvot, Lo Ta’aseh 51): Counts the prohibition not to allow idolaters residence in the Land.
• Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 10:6): States that idolaters may not dwell in Eretz Yisrael unless they accept upon themselves the seven Noahide laws.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 427): Explains that idolaters influence society toward their practices, so their removal prevents assimilation.
• Talmud (Avodah Zarah 20a): Interprets “They shall not dwell in your land” to prohibit permanent residence of idolaters.
• Rashi (Ex. 23:33): Explains that the prohibition is because idolaters will cause Israel to sin.
• Ramban (Ex. 23:33): Highlights that this mitzvah preserves the holiness of the Land; coexistence with idolaters threatens Israel’s mission.
• Midrash (Mekhilta de-Rabbi Yishmael, Mishpatim §18): Emphasizes that idolaters’ presence is a snare, likening it to leaving a trap in one’s own home.

Contrast with…

• Mitzvah 57 (Not to Show Favor to Idolaters): That mitzvah prohibits acts of favor such as gifts or flattery (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 10:4), whereas Mitzvah 58 prohibits physical permanence in the Land (10:6).
• Talmud (Avodah Zarah 20a): Contrasts the external honor of idolaters (Mitzvah 57) with the danger of their dwelling among Israel (Mitzvah 58).

Parallel to…

• Deuteronomy 7:2: “You shall not make a covenant with them nor show them favor.” This parallels the dwelling prohibition, as both prevent idolaters from establishing permanence in Israel.
• Ezra 9:12: Ezra commands not to allow the nations of the Land to mix with Israel, paralleling the Torah’s concern.
• Joshua 23:12–13: Warns that dwelling alongside nations leads to intermarriage and idol worship, echoing Exodus 23:33.