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:

1. Do not commit idolatry: Refraining from worshipping false gods.
2. Do not blaspheme: Respecting the sanctity of God’s name.
3. Do not murder: Valuing and preserving human life.
4. Do not engage in illicit sexual relations: Upholding the sanctity of family and moral relationships.
5. Do not steal: Respecting the property and rights of others.
6. Do not eat the flesh of a living animal: Demonstrating compassion for animals.
7. 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

Question from a Reader: 

From: Ethan Martinez
Subject: Studying Torah as a Noahide

Dear Rabbi Joshua,
I’ve recently been exploring the teachings of Judaism and came across the concept of the Noahide Laws. As a Noahide, I am curious to know whether it is permissible for me to study the entire Torah. I found a website suggesting that Noahides should only study parts of the Torah that are relevant to them. However, this limitation doesn’t feel right to me. Can you provide some insight into this matter?
Sincerely,
Ethan

The Permissibility of Torah Study for Noahides

Dear Ethan,

Your question touches on a nuanced and profound aspect of Jewish teaching and tradition. In addressing this, we must first understand the distinction between Jews and Noahides (or B’nei Noach) in the context of Torah study.

The Torah, in its broadest sense, encompasses the entire spectrum of Jewish teaching, law, and narrative, from the Written Torah (the Five Books of Moses) to the Oral Torah (embodied in the Mishna, Talmud, and subsequent rabbinic writings). Traditionally, Jewish law holds that the entire Torah is primarily the inheritance of the Jewish people (Devarim/Deuteronomy 33:4).

However, this does not exclude Noahides from engaging with the Torah. The Noahide Laws, seven universal laws given to the descendants of Noah, form a basic moral framework shared by all humanity. In the Talmud, Tractate Sanhedrin 59a, it is discussed how non-Jews may engage in the study of Torah. The sages explain that while non-Jews are certainly encouraged to study the parts of the Torah relevant to the Noahide Laws, extending their study beyond this scope is a matter of debate.

Rabbinic opinion varies on this issue. Some posits that non-Jews should focus solely on the aspects of Torah directly pertaining to the Noahide commandments. This view is rooted in the principle of maintaining a clear distinction between Jewish and Noahide obligations. Others, however, advocate a more inclusive approach, permitting Noahides to study more broadly, recognizing the universal relevance and wisdom contained in the Torah.

It’s important to note that this broader approach doesn’t imply equal obligation or identical religious experience as that of a Jew. The Torah contains commandments and teachings specifically tailored for the Jewish people. Nevertheless, its ethical teachings, narratives, and wisdom are seen as a light unto the nations (Isaiah 42:6), offering moral guidance and spiritual insight to all.

So, in conclusion, while there is a traditional emphasis on Noahides focusing their study on aspects of the Torah relevant to the Noahide Laws, a more expansive study is not necessarily prohibited, especially if it is done with the guidance of knowledgeable Jewish scholars or teachers. This approach aligns with the spirit of the Torah as a source of wisdom and ethical guidance for all humanity.

In your journey of Torah study, I encourage you to explore these teachings with humility and respect for their sacred origins and context. May your study enrich your understanding and bring you closer to the universal truths that the Torah imparts to us all.

Shalom and blessings,
Rabbi Joshua