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Astrology in Noahism: A Jewish Viewpoint

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Question from a Reader:

Dear Rabbi Joshua,

I’ve been contemplating the place of astrology in Noahism. Is it forbidden to research astrological signs like Scorpio, Taurus, etc., and think about personality traits and compatibilities? Also, are we forbidden from reading our horoscopes in newspapers and such? I’ve avoided astrology for over 20 years, advising others to do the same, under the belief that it was “pagan”.

Sincerely,
Michael

Response from Rabbi Joshua

Dear Michael,

Thank you for your thoughtful inquiry. The question of astrology in the context of Noahism is indeed a nuanced one. As someone deeply committed to the teachings of Judaism, my response is rooted in our sacred texts and traditions.

Firstly, it’s important to distinguish between ‘astrology’ as a cultural or psychological phenomenon and ‘astrology’ as a divinatory practice. The Torah, in Deuteronomy 18:10-12, explicitly forbids divination, a category under which astrology as a means of foretelling the future or influencing one’s destiny would fall. This prohibition is echoed in the Talmud (Shabbat 156a), where reliance on astrological signs is discouraged, emphasizing that ‘ein mazal l’Yisrael’ (ישראל מזל אין) – Israel is not subject to astrological constellations.

In the context of Noahism – the universal moral and ethical code for non-Jews derived from the Seven Laws of Noah – the prohibition against idolatry and divination applies. Delving into astrology with the belief that celestial bodies control or predict human fate contradicts the fundamental Jewish belief in free will and divine providence. Thus, from a traditional Jewish perspective, relying on astrology for predictions or guidance in life decisions would be considered inappropriate.

However, when it comes to a casual or cultural interest in astrology – such as reading about personality traits associated with astrological signs – the stance is more lenient, provided it is not taken as a serious determinant of one’s behavior or future. It is key to maintain a clear distinction between interest and belief. The moment astrology crosses over into the realm of belief or influences decisions, it veers towards the forbidden.

Regarding reading horoscopes for entertainment or curiosity, as long as one does not give them credence or allow them to dictate life choices, it falls into a gray area. It’s crucial, however, to remain vigilant about not letting such practices diminish one’s faith in God’s sovereignty and the primacy of personal choice and moral responsibility.

In conclusion, while a casual interest in astrology as a cultural phenomenon may not be strictly forbidden in Noahism, any serious reliance on or belief in astrology as a determinant of one’s fate or actions is not in harmony with Jewish teachings. As always, the emphasis should be on personal accountability, moral decision-making, and faith in divine guidance.

May your journey be guided by wisdom and light.

Shalom,

Rabbi Joshua

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

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