Email from a reader: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I am interested in embracing the path of a Noahide. Could you guide me on how to formally become a Noahide? Thank you, Sarah Cohen”Dear Sarah,

Your interest in the Noahide path reflects a sincere pursuit of spiritual and ethical living. Let me guide you through the process of becoming a Noahide.

Understanding the Noahide Laws:

First and foremost, it is important to understand the Seven Noahide Laws, which are a set of universal moral principles. These include prohibitions against idolatry, blasphemy, murder, theft, sexual immorality, eating flesh from a living animal, and the command to establish just legal systems. These laws are derived from the Torah and are regarded as the basic standards of morality and righteousness for all humankind.

Personal Commitment:

Becoming a Noahide is primarily a matter of personal commitment rather than undergoing a formal conversion process as in Judaism. This commitment involves embracing the Seven Noahide Laws as your guide for living a righteous and ethical life. It is about making a conscious decision to live in a way that upholds these universal values.

Study and Learning:

Engaging in study and learning is a vital aspect of being a Noahide. This includes learning about the Seven Laws themselves, their implications, and how they apply to daily life. You may seek out resources like books, online materials, or communities that can provide insights and guidance on Noahide living.

Community and Support:

While being a Noahide is a personal journey, connecting with a community can provide support, fellowship, and opportunities for communal worship and service. There are Noahide communities and organizations that you can join to be a part of a larger group of like-minded individuals.

Living the Principles:

Ultimately, becoming a Noahide is about living out the principles of the Noahide Laws in your everyday life. This means not only abstaining from the prohibited actions but also actively pursuing justice, kindness, and ethical behavior in your interactions with others and in your personal conduct.

Sarah, your journey towards embracing the Noahide path is commendable. It is a journey of continuous growth, learning, and application of universal ethical principles. May your path be blessed with wisdom, understanding, and fulfillment.

Warm regards,

Rabbi Joshua

Email from a reader: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, As someone interested in Noahidism, I’m curious about its perspective on the Torah’s flood story. Do Noahides believe the flood actually happened as described? Was Noah a real person? Sincerely, Elizabeth Morgan”

Dear Elizabeth,

Your question delves into the heart of how the Noahide tradition views the narratives of the Torah, particularly the story of Noah and the flood.

The Flood Story in Noahidism:

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that Noahidism is based on the Seven Laws given to Noah, which are universal and not dependent on the Jewish people’s specific covenant with God. The story of Noah and the flood, as narrated in the Torah, holds significant importance in Jewish tradition as an account of divine intervention, justice, and mercy.

For Noahides, belief in the historical accuracy of the flood story varies. Some Noahides view the narrative as a literal historical event, believing that Noah was a real person and the flood occurred as described. This view is often intertwined with a perspective that sees the Torah as a source of both spiritual and historical truth.

On the other hand, there are Noahides who interpret the story allegorically or symbolically. In this view, the narrative of Noah and the flood serves as a profound moral and ethical lesson rather than a literal historical account. The emphasis is on the teachings derived from the story, such as the importance of righteousness, the consequences of moral decay, and the potential for renewal and redemption.

Diversity of Belief Among Noahides:

It’s important to recognize that Noahidism, while rooted in Torah principles, does not require a uniform belief in the literalness of every Torah narrative. Noahides come from diverse backgrounds and cultures, bringing with them various interpretations and understandings of these stories. What unites them is a commitment to the Seven Noahide Laws and a shared respect for their ethical and moral teachings.

The story of Noah and the flood, whether viewed as historical fact or allegorical teaching, underscores themes that are central to Noahidism – the value of righteousness, the importance of ethical living, and the belief in a just and merciful God.

Elizabeth, your inquiry reflects a thoughtful engagement with the Noahide path. Whether you come to see the story of Noah as historical fact or allegorical teaching, the key is to draw from it the timeless lessons that can guide your ethical and spiritual journey.

Warm regards,

Rabbi Joshua

Email from a reader: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I’ve read about President George H.W. Bush signing something related to the Noahide Laws. Could you provide some clarity on when and what exactly was signed? Thank you, Alex Friedman”

Dear Alex,

Your question pertains to a significant moment in the recognition of the Noahide Laws within the context of United States law and history. Let’s delve into the details.

Proclamation 5956 – Education Day, U.S.A., 1991:

President George H.W. Bush signed a proclamation on March 20, 1991, designating April 7, 1991, as “Education Day, U.S.A.”. This proclamation, known as Proclamation 5956, is often referenced in relation to the Noahide Laws.

Context of the Proclamation:

The proclamation was made in honor of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, who was a prominent Jewish leader known for his contributions to education and the promotion of the Noahide Laws. The proclamation itself acknowledges the Rebbe’s efforts in “fostering education among all people” and his role in “emphasizing the importance of education to the future of our country.”

Mention of the Noahide Laws:

While the proclamation does not explicitly enact the Noahide Laws as part of U.S. law, it does reference them. It states, “The Lubavitch movement has fostered and promoted these ethical values and principles throughout the world… in tribute to this great spiritual leader, ‘the rebbe,’ this, his ninetieth year will be seen as one of ‘education and giving,’ focusing on the importance of education and charity for all.” This is seen as an acknowledgment of the values embodied in the Noahide Laws.

Significance:

The signing of this proclamation is significant as it represents a moment when the President of the United States recognized the contributions of a Jewish leader and, by extension, the values encapsulated in the Noahide Laws. However, it’s crucial to understand that this was a symbolic gesture of respect and recognition rather than a legal enactment of these laws into U.S. legislation.

Alex, I hope this clarifies the context and content of President George H.W. Bush’s 1991 proclamation in relation to the Noahide Laws. It stands as a testament to the values of education, ethics, and spiritual leadership in the public sphere.

Warm regards,

Rabbi Joshua