Noahidism

The Ancestry of Noah – Exploring His Father and Grandfather

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Email from a reader: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I’m studying the genealogy in the Torah and would like to know more about Noah’s family. Who were Noah’s father and grandfather? Thank you, James Taylor”

Dear James,

Your question delves into the rich tapestry of genealogy presented in the Torah. Let’s explore the lineage of Noah, specifically focusing on his father and grandfather.

Noah’s Father:

Noah’s father was Lamech. This information is found in the Book of Genesis, which details the generations leading up to Noah. The relevant passage is in Genesis 5:28-29, where it states: “And Lamech lived a hundred eighty and two years, and begat a son: And he called his name Noah, saying, This same shall comfort us concerning our work and toil of our hands, because of the ground which the LORD hath cursed.”

Noah’s Grandfather:

Noah’s grandfather, on his father’s side, was Methuselah. Methuselah is renowned for his longevity, with the Torah stating that he lived for 969 years, making him the longest-lived human figure in the Torah. His mention is found in Genesis 5:25-27.

Significance in Jewish Tradition:

In Jewish tradition, these genealogies are significant as they connect the creation of the world with subsequent generations, leading up to pivotal figures like Noah. They establish a continuity from Adam through to Noah, who represents a new beginning for humanity after the flood.

Understanding Biblical Lifespans:

The long lifespans recorded in the Torah, such as Methuselah’s, are often subjects of discussion and interpretation. In Jewish thought, these ages are sometimes understood literally, while other times they are seen as symbolic, reflecting the righteousness and spiritual stature of these individuals.

Conclusion:

James, Noah’s lineage, with Lamech as his father and Methuselah as his grandfather, connects him to a line of ancestors who are integral to the early narrative of the Torah. This genealogy sets the stage for Noah’s role in the story of the flood and the covenant between God and humanity that follows.

Warm regards,

Rabbi Joshua

Noahidism

Tracing the Generations from Noah to Abraham in the Torah

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Email from a reader: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I’m interested in the genealogies in the Torah. Could you tell me how many generations are there between Noah and Abraham? Regards, Andrew Johnson”

Dear Andrew,

Your inquiry into the number of generations between Noah and Abraham provides an opportunity to explore an important aspect of biblical genealogy. Let’s examine this lineage as presented in the Torah.

Generations from Noah to Abraham:

The Torah provides a detailed lineage from Noah to Abraham, particularly in the Book of Genesis. This lineage can be traced through the following generations:

Noah begot Shem.
Shem begot Arpachshad.
Arpachshad begot Shelah.
Shelah begot Eber.
Eber begot Peleg.
Peleg begot Reu.
Reu begot Serug.
Serug begot Nahor.
Nahor begot Terah.
Terah begot Abraham.

This lineage shows that there are ten generations from Noah to Abraham.

Significance of the Generations:

In Jewish tradition, these generations are not just a record of ancestry but also convey deeper meanings and connections. Each generation represents a link in the transmission of tradition and faith from the time of Noah, a righteous man in his era, to Abraham, the patriarch of the Jewish people.

Understanding Biblical Genealogy:

Biblical genealogies, such as the one from Noah to Abraham, are often studied for their historical, theological, and symbolic significance. They provide a framework for understanding the progression of events and the development of God’s plan for humanity.

Conclusion:

Andrew, the genealogy from Noah to Abraham, spanning ten generations, is a foundational aspect of the biblical narrative, connecting the story of the flood and the covenant with Noah to the covenant with Abraham and the beginnings of the Jewish people.

Warm regards,

Rabbi Joshua

Judaism, Noahidism

What Parts of the Torah Can Noahides Study?

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Question from a Reader:

From: Ethan

Subject: Torah Study for Noahides

Dear Rabbi Joshua,

I recently read your answer regarding whether Noahides can study the Torah. If they are not permitted to study the entire Torah, could you clarify which parts are permissible for them to study?

Warm regards,
Ethan

Guidelines for Torah Study by Noahides

Dear Ethan,

Your follow-up question provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the specifics of Torah study for Noahides. As previously discussed, while there is a traditional focus for Noahides to study parts of the Torah that are directly relevant to them, understanding what this entails can be enlightening.

The core of Noahide study revolves around the Seven Laws of Noah, which are briefly mentioned in the Torah and elaborated upon in the Talmud and later rabbinic writings. These laws are:

Do not commit idolatry: Refraining from worshipping false gods.
Do not blaspheme: Respecting the sanctity of God’s name.
Do not murder: Valuing and preserving human life.
Do not engage in illicit sexual relations: Upholding the sanctity of family and moral relationships.
Do not steal: Respecting the property and rights of others.
Do not eat the flesh of a living animal: Demonstrating compassion for animals.
Establish courts of justice: Creating a just legal system to enforce these laws.

For Noahides, studying sections of the Torah and Talmud that elucidate these laws is not only permitted but encouraged. This includes understanding the ethical and philosophical underpinnings of these commandments, as well as their practical applications. For instance, the Genesis narrative, which includes the story of Noah and the Flood, forms a foundational part of this study, as it sets the stage for the Noahide Laws.

Specific Sections of the Torah for Noahide Study

1. Genesis (Bereishit)

Creation and the Early Patriarchs: Genesis chapters 1 through 11, which cover the creation of the world, the story of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, the Flood, and the Tower of Babel, are fundamental. They lay the groundwork for understanding humanity’s relationship with God and with each other, setting the stage for the Noahide Laws.

The Stories of the Patriarchs: The narratives of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, found in Genesis 12 through 50, are rich in ethical and moral teachings. Abraham’s journey, in particular, is a study in faith and righteousness that transcends specific Jewish commandments.

2. Exodus (Shemot) – Selected Portions

The Exodus Narrative: The story of the Israelites’ slavery in Egypt and their subsequent liberation is a powerful narrative about faith, freedom, and divine justice. Key sections include Exodus chapters 1-15.

The Ten Commandments: Found in Exodus 20, these commandments lay down fundamental ethical guidelines that are relevant to all humanity.

3. Leviticus (Vayikra) – Holiness and Ethics

Holiness and Moral Conduct: Leviticus chapters 17-20, often referred to as the “Holiness Code,” contain universal ethical teachings, such as the commandment to love one’s neighbor (Leviticus 19:18).

4. Numbers (Bamidbar) and Deuteronomy (Devarim) – Selected Narratives

These books contain narratives and speeches that include moral and ethical teachings, such as the importance of justice and the dangers of idolatry.

5. Prophetic Writings

While not part of the Torah proper, the writings of the prophets (Nevi’im) are also a rich source of ethical teachings and insights into the universal aspects of God’s message. Books like Isaiah and Micah contain powerful teachings on justice, peace, and ethical monotheism.

In summary, the study for Noahides should focus on the universal principles and ethical teachings of the Torah, particularly those related to the Seven Laws of Noah. This study is not only permissible but is seen as a pathway to spiritual growth and understanding of God’s will for all humanity.

As always, I encourage those on this path to seek out knowledgeable guidance and resources to aid in their study. May your journey through the wisdom of the Torah be fulfilling and enlightening.

Shalom and blessings,
Rabbi Joshua