Noahidism

Dress and Dignity: Guidance for Noahide Women

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illustration depicting Sarah, the wife of Abraham

Question from a Reader

Dear Rabbi Joshua,

As a Noahide woman, I am seeking guidance on how to dress in a way that aligns with the Noahide Laws. What are the expectations and principles that I should consider?

Warm regards,
Elizabeth Miller

Principles of Modesty in Noahidism

Dear Elizabeth,

Thank you for your thoughtful question. The way one dresses, especially in the context of religious and ethical standards, is indeed an important topic. In Noahidism, which embraces the universal moral and ethical code derived from the Seven Laws of Noah, the principles of modesty and dignity are paramount.

It is essential to understand that modesty in dress is not solely about covering the body, but also about expressing one’s dignity and respect for oneself and others. This principle resonates with the concept of ‘Tzniut’ in Judaism, which encompasses modesty not only in dress but also in behavior and speech.

General Guidelines for Dress

The guidelines for a Noahide woman’s dress primarily focus on modesty. This entails clothing that covers the body in a way that does not draw undue attention or reveal the body in a manner deemed sexually provocative. While specific standards can vary culturally, a general rule is to wear attire that covers the shoulders, knees, and chest.

The principle behind modest dress is to respect the inherent dignity of the human being, created in the image of God (‘Tzelem Elokim’ – צלם אלוקים). This concept is beautifully articulated in Genesis 1:27, emphasizing the divine image in each person.

Cultural Considerations and Personal Choice

It is important to recognize that modesty standards can differ across cultures and societies. What is considered modest in one community may differ in another. Hence, while adhering to the general principles of modesty, a Noahide woman should also consider the norms of her own culture and environment.

Additionally, personal choice and comfort play a significant role. Dressing modestly should not be seen as a burden, but as an expression of one’s values and respect for the divine image within all of us.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as a Noahide woman, dressing in a manner that reflects modesty and dignity is a way of honoring the divine and respecting oneself and others. This approach to dress, rooted in the principles of Noahidism,

Judaism, Noahidism

What Race Was Noah?

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Email from a reader: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, In reading about Noah in the Torah, I’ve been wondering about his racial background. What race was Noah? Thank you for your insights, Michael Brown”

Dear Michael,

Your question about Noah’s racial identity is interesting and invites us to examine how concepts like race are understood within the context of the Torah.

Concept of Race in the Torah:

In the Torah, the concept of race as understood in contemporary terms does not exist. The Torah, written in an ancient context, describes individuals more in terms of their familial or tribal affiliations and their relationships to one another rather than by modern racial classifications.

Noah’s Background:

Noah is a key figure in the Book of Genesis. He is described as a righteous man, chosen by God to survive a great flood that cleansed the earth of corruption. The narrative focuses on his faith, his character, and his actions rather than on physical or racial attributes.

As a descendant of Adam and Eve, Noah represents humanity in its early stages. The Torah presents him as an ancestor of all post-flood humanity, rather than identifying him with a specific race.

Post-Flood Dispersion and Humanity:

After the flood, the story of the Tower of Babel and the subsequent dispersion of Noah’s descendants is seen as the origin of different languages and, by extension, various cultural and ethnic groups. However, these groups are not defined along the lines of what we consider races today.

Conclusion:

Michael, in the Torah, Noah is portrayed as a universal figure, significant to the entire human race rather than a specific ethnic group. His story is one of faith, obedience, and survival, transcending contemporary notions of race. It serves as a reminder of the shared origins of all people and the universal principles of righteousness and morality.

Warm regards,

Rabbi Joshua

Judaism, Noahidism

Exploring Noahide Ancestry and Prophecy

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“Dear Rabbi Joshua,
I’m interested in understanding my connection to the 70 families mentioned in the Torah and identifying my ancestral lineage. My last name is Ashkenazic and I have Germanic descent on my father’s side, while my mother’s descent is unknown due to her adoption. How can I trace my lineage, and how would I recognize a Noahide prophet? I am eager to explore the path that was meant for me.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Schmidt”

The Seventy Nations and Noahide Laws

Dear Jonathan, your inquiry delves into the rich tapestry of human lineage and spiritual heritage as depicted in Jewish tradition. According to the Torah, humanity diversified into 70 nations descending from the sons of Noah (Genesis 10). These nations are bound by the Seven Noahide Laws, universal moral principles given by G-d for all humanity.

Identifying Your Ancestral Family

Your Ashkenazic surname suggests an origin within the Jewish diaspora of Central and Eastern Europe, traditionally associated with the descendants of Japheth, one of Noah’s sons. However, tracing your maternal lineage might be more complex due to your mother’s adoption. In Jewish tradition, lineage is matrilineal, but understanding your broader Noahide heritage would involve considering both biological and adoptive lineages, and recognizing the influences of both in your identity.

Disappearance and Continuity of the 70 Nations

While some ancient peoples, like the Canaanites, have seemingly vanished, their genetic and cultural legacies often persist in the populations that succeeded them. The concept of 70 nations is more symbolic, representing the diversity of humanity rather than a fixed number of distinct groups. This diversity continues to evolve over time.

Noahide Prophets and Recognizing Prophecy

The concept of Noahide prophets, or prophets sent to non-Jewish nations, is a fascinating aspect of Jewish tradition. Prophets in this context were individuals chosen by G-d to guide their people in moral and spiritual matters. Recognizing a prophet is complex; traditionally, it involves a combination of moral integrity, performing verifiable miracles, and delivering consistent messages that align with existing Divine commandments.

Exploring Your Spiritual Path

To study the path of the 70 nations and find the one meant for you, consider a journey through both historical study and spiritual exploration. Engaging with Jewish and Noahide teachings, understanding the historical movements of peoples, and reflecting on your personal and familial history can offer insights into your spiritual heritage and path.

May your journey be enlightening and fulfilling, as you explore the rich mosaic of humanity’s spiritual ancestry.
Shalom,
Rabbi Joshua

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