Noachide Laws

When Noach and his family left the Ark, they were given seven laws that were known as the “Noachide Laws.” These were given to all mankind, and were expected to be observed by all mankind.

Rav Kook described the necessity of these laws as a “Tikun,” or fixing, for the sins that led to the flood. Having a basic system of laws, would enable man to overcome his lusts, and would keep him in check.

When the Torah was given, the potential of man was elevated to a higher level, with the observance of the 613 Mitzvot. This is why it is understood that a Gentile who observes these seven laws, is able to achieve a level of “righteousness,” while a Jew can reach the level of “holiness.”

Years ago, a Noachide couple spoke to a group of my students at Machon Me’ir. The wife gave this message very clearly. She said, “Our job is to attain righteousness, while your job is to attain holiness. I later learned that this couple eventually converted to Judaism.

We also learn from the story of the flood that all of mankind needs rules to guide them. The need for a flood showed how people tend to self destruct when they are not given limits as to how to behave. Basis rules needed to be stated so that a society could function on a reasonable level. Murder, idolatry, theft, sexual misconduct like adultery, acting brutally with animals, and blasphemy, were considered very obvious laws. These laws were expected to be enforced by setting up courts of justice.

When another group of laws are added to these seven, and involves living a highly disciplined life, it is understandable how the Mitzvot of the Torah can raise a person to Kedusha, or holiness.

We are witnesses today to the chaos that emerges when the Torah is abandoned, and people feel free to make up their own rules. We see a total breakdown of morality, and what should be obvious to the masses, is met with confusion and nonsense.
Parshat Noach teaches that everyone needs laws as human beings are weak. It’s time that there is a return to the basic lessons of our sacred Torah.