Email from a reader: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I’ve come across people who refer to themselves as Noahides, and I’m curious if this is considered a cult or a legitimate faith practice. Could you provide some clarity on this? Regards, Emily Smith”Dear Emily,

Your question addresses a common concern regarding the nature of religious movements and their classification. Let’s explore the Noahide movement from this perspective.

Definition of a Cult:

In common parlance, the term ‘cult’ often carries negative connotations, typically referring to a group characterized by extreme devotion to a charismatic leader, exploitation, psychological manipulation, and often isolation from mainstream society. Cults usually deviate significantly from traditional and established norms and practices of larger, more recognized religions.

The Noahide Movement:

The Noahide movement, on the other hand, is a spiritual and religious initiative based on the Seven Noahide Laws, which are derived from the Torah. These laws are a set of ethical and moral guidelines believed to have been given by God to Noah and, through him, to all humanity.

People who identify as Noahides are typically non-Jews who seek to follow these universal laws as a way of life. They usually do so out of a genuine spiritual and ethical commitment, rather than due to the influence of a single, charismatic leader.

Relationship with Mainstream Judaism:

Noahidism is recognized and respected within mainstream Judaism. It is seen as a legitimate form of religious expression for non-Jews who wish to connect with the ethical teachings of the Torah without converting to Judaism. Many rabbis and Jewish scholars support and provide guidance to the Noahide community, helping them understand and live by these laws.

Lack of Common Cult Characteristics:

The Noahide movement, in general, does not exhibit the typical characteristics of a cult. It does not revolve around a singular, authoritarian figure, nor does it encourage isolation or psychological manipulation. Instead, it is a faith practice centered on a set of moral principles with a focus on ethical living, spiritual growth, and connection to a monotheistic belief system.

Emily, I hope this clarifies the nature of the Noahide movement. While it is a distinct and relatively small religious group, its foundation in historical and ethical teachings places it within the realm of legitimate faith practices rather than that of a cult.

Warm regards,

Rabbi Joshua

Email from a reader: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I’m studying the book of Genesis and would like to understand more about what the Noahide covenant specifically forbids. Could you elaborate on this topic? Thank you, Daniel”

Dear Daniel,

Your question delves into the heart of one of the foundational narratives in the Torah. The Noahide covenant, as described in Genesis, sets forth several key prohibitions and commandments that form the basis of the Seven Noahide Laws. Let’s examine these in detail.

The Prohibitions in Genesis:

After the flood, God makes a covenant with Noah, and by extension, with all humanity (Genesis 9). This covenant includes several explicit and implicit commandments and prohibitions:

• Prohibition of Murder: In Genesis 9:6, the text states, “Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image.” This verse is understood as a strict prohibition against murder and a commandment to preserve human life.
• Prohibition of Eating Flesh from a Living Animal: Genesis 9:4 says, “But you shall not eat flesh with its life, that is, its blood.” This is interpreted as a prohibition against eating flesh torn from a living animal, emphasizing respect for the life and suffering of animals.
• Establishment of Courts of Justice: While not explicitly stated in Genesis, the commandment to establish courts of justice is derived from the broader context of the covenant, which sets forth laws to govern human society justly and ethically.

Broader Interpretations:

Aside from these specific prohibitions, Jewish tradition interprets the Noahide covenant more broadly to include additional ethical and moral laws, forming the Seven Noahide Laws. These encompass prohibitions against idolatry, blasphemy, sexual immorality, and theft, along with the commandments mentioned above.

These interpretations are not directly stated in the Genesis narrative but are derived from it through rabbinic exegesis and analysis found in later texts such as the Talmud.

Universal Ethical Principles:

The Noahide covenant, as interpreted by Jewish tradition, is seen as a universal ethical code applicable to all humanity. It represents a divine mandate for maintaining justice, respect for life, and moral integrity in human society.

Daniel, I hope this provides a clear understanding of the prohibitions and commandments within the Noahide covenant as presented in Genesis. This covenant forms a cornerstone of ethical monotheism and continues to be relevant in guiding moral conduct across diverse cultures and societies.

Warm regards,

Rabbi Joshua