Email from a reader: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I’ve been reading the story of Noah and wondered if he had multiple wives, as some other biblical figures did. Could you clarify this aspect of Noah’s life according to the Torah? Thank you, Michael A.”
Dear Michael,
Your question about Noah’s marital status is intriguing and allows us to explore the narrative of Noah as presented in the Torah. Let’s delve into what the Torah says about this aspect of his life.
Noah’s Marital Status According to the Torah:
In the Torah, there is no indication that Noah had multiple wives. The narrative of Noah, particularly in the Book of Genesis, mentions only one wife. For instance:
- In Genesis 6:18, God tells Noah, “But I will establish My covenant with you; and you shall go into the arkâyou, your sons, your wife, and your sons’ wives with you.” This verse implies that Noah had one wife.
- Throughout the flood narrative, Noah’s wife is mentioned, but there is no reference to any additional wives.
Contextual Understanding:
The narrative of Noah and his family is set in a context where the emphasis is on the survival of humanity and the animal kingdom through the ark. The Torah focuses on Noah’s righteousness, his obedience to God, and his role in preserving life during the flood. The details of his personal life, such as his marital status, are not the primary focus of the story.
Comparison with Other Biblical Figures:
While multiple marriages are mentioned in the context of other biblical figures, such as Abraham, Jacob, and David, the Torah does not ascribe this practice to Noah. Each biblical narrative has its unique context and set of circumstances, and the Torah portrays each figure according to their role in the divine plan.
Conclusion:
Michael, based on the Torah’s account, we understand that Noah had one wife. The lack of mention of multiple wives aligns with the narrative’s focus on Noah’s mission to save his family and the animal world from the flood. As with many biblical figures, the Torah provides specific details that serve to highlight their spiritual and moral lessons, rather than exhaustive biographical information.
Warm regards,
Rabbi Joshua
