Chabad Tokyo Japan

The Seven Noahide Laws provide a source of guidance and relief in times of anxiety. In times of anxiety, it is typical to seek solace in faith and spirituality. The 7 Noahide laws have been given by G-d to Noah after the flood. These laws are the foundation of human civilization. While the 7 Noahide laws do not explicitly address anxiety, they can provide a framework for leading a meaningful and fulfilling life.

This means acknowledging the existence of G-d who cares about His world. Respecting the value of human life and avoiding murder. Respecting the life of all creatures and avoiding cruelty to animals. Respecting the property of others and avoiding theft. Establishing courts of law and ensuring justice in our world.

By following these laws, one can cultivate a sense of faith and Divine meaning in life, which can help alleviate anxiety. Additionally, spiritual acts such as prayer and charity, can help reduce stress and promote inner peace.

Ultimately, finding relief from anxiety depends on a personal effort; however, the Noahide Laws can be a valuable part of that journey, offering spiritual support during difficult times. The belief in divine providence is part of the first Noahide commandment- not to worship idols. Despite the huge amount of evil in the world, there is nothing besides Him.

Faith in G-d can provide comfort and hope during times of war. It can help people cope with adversity by encouraging them to reframe events through a hopeful lens, fostering a sense of connectedness. In addition, we all have to pray for peace and wisdom that will be found at the highest level in the coming redemption by King Moshiach.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe.

In our Torah portion, Genesis, the most important Divine laws of human existence can be found. “And the Lord G-d commanded the man to say, of every tree of the garden you may eat” (Genesis 2:16). This verse is the basis for 6 out of 7 Noahide commands, it includes these laws in summary. These were the commandments given to Adam in the Garden of Eden:

The rejection of the worship of celestial objects or idols.

Prohibition of cursing God’s name or blaspheming it.

Establishing courts of justice.

Not to murder: It emphasizes the sanctity of human life and aligns with the Noahide Law of prohibiting murder.

To maintain morality. Clinging to the sanctity of marriage between male and female.

Not to steal.

After 10 generations the seventh law was given to Noah, not to eat a limb from a living animal.

In the very first Torah portion, when the world is only a few days old, we read that Abel is murdered by his very own brother, Cain. Abel was a shepherd and Cain was a farmer. Cain brought an offering to G‑d from the fruit of his harvest, and Abel brought from his firstborn sheep. G‑d accepted the offering of Abel, but not that of Cain. Cain was upset. And then, all of a sudden, Cain met Abel in the field and killed him, out of jealousy.
This act of murder is a clear violation of the moral principle that prohibits the taking of another person’s life, which is a central tenet in the Seven Noahide Laws that are binding on all of humanity.

While the story is ancient, it is still actual and its lessons continue to resonate with people in various aspects of contemporary life, reminding us of the enduring importance of values such as the sanctity of human life. In our modern world, respect for human life and the rejection of violence continue to be essential principles. Issues related to violence, and war highlight the ongoing importance of the 7 Noahide laws in the global context.

The story demonstrates the importance of justice and accountability. After murdering Abel, Cain is held accountable for his actions and he was punished. In contemporary societies, principles of justice, and accountability for crimes are fundamental to a just society that cannot stand aside while crimes against humanity happen. One of the lessons learned is that the nations of the world should not sit on the sidelines and they must act and condemn horrific terror acts. This is their duty according to the 7 Noahide laws that were given by G-d on Mt. Sinai.

The soul of Moshiach is one of the first things in existence and the loftiest. Its creation preceded all other aspects of creation. As our sages say, in the second verse of Genesis, “And the earth was null and void, and a spirit of G-d hovered over the face of the water,” “The spirit of G-d: this is the soul of Moshiach.” We are waiting for King Moshiach to be revealed. Only with complete Redemption, when all of creation will be elevated, an eternal just, and peaceful world would be found.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe.

The seven days of Sukkot are celebrated in the Tabernacle, and after the Simcha comes the last holiday, Simchat Torah. This holiday expresses our belief in the presence and the unity of G-d. After the high holidays comes the peak time of joy and happiness. Simchat Torah is related strongly to the verse in Deuteronomy 4:35: “You have been shown, in order to know that the Lord He is G-d; there is none else besides Him”.

The purpose of this manifestation is to instill knowledge and faith in the hearts. It is meant to strengthen the belief in G-d and the commitment to following His commandments.

Belief in the unity of G-d does not mean only the denial of false gods but rather that G-d is the only true reality and that apart from Him there is no reality – “there is no other besides Him”, and everything that seems to be apart from him, is not a real reality. The reason for this lies in the fact that the existence of reality is due to the power of G-d’s generating it at every moment and if the power of creation stops for a moment it would return to nothingness and zero as before creation.

The Seven Noahide Laws, which are derived from the Torah and apply to all of humanity, include not only the prohibition against idolatry (which encompasses a rejection of multiple deities) but also the positive affirmation and the internalization that there is nothing besides Him. Therefore, Gentiles are obligated to believe in the unity of G-d as part of their adherence to the 7 Noahide Laws.

On this holiday we can feel the reality of the Messianic era where G-dliness will be felt in the creation and the word of G-d will be the most obvious thing. Noahides are expected to play their key role in hastening redemption by strictly clinging to the fulfillment of the seven Noahide laws by not adding or subtracting any detail.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe

“It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make a fitting helper for him.” (Genesis 2:18) The verse is spoken by G-d, and it highlights the need for marital partnership for life. This verse is part of the creation narrative in the book of Genesis, describing the origin of humanity and the creation of the first human, Adam. The verse reflects G-d’s design for humanity and involves connection and relationships between a male and female as they were created by G-d. This is an essential theme within the Noahide code.

The institution of marriage has undoubtedly undergone some pressure due to various trends in Western society. This has challenged the traditional nuclear family model often associated with marriage. But despite this, we see a strengthening in the traditional concept of marriage. Non-traditional family structures, such as single-parent families and families with same-sex couples, have proven to be unstable and most importantly they are against the command of G-d in the 7 Noahide laws.

This might begin by reinforcing the importance of the Noahide laws as a foundation for marital proper behavior. It would emphasize that seeking a partner who also values these principles can contribute to a strong and lasting marriage. The family and community play a role in Noahide relationships. An individual or a community leader should learn about the significance of pre-marital counseling or education to address potential challenges, align expectations, and establish a solid foundation for marriage.

How does this issue of marriage apply to modern-day Noahides?
The prohibition against adultery is considered one of the seven Noahide laws, as it falls under the broader category of maintaining moral behavior. Therefore, Noahides are expected to study and be aware of all the details of this issue as part of the Noahide laws.
These prohibitions against adultery and the severe penalties associated with them highlight the importance of maintaining the sanctity of marriage and fidelity within the family. The Torah places a strong emphasis on moral behavior, and these laws are intended to guide in living righteous lives according to G-d’s as expressed by the 7 Noahide commandments.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe.

The Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) is a significant Jewish festival that signifies the support of the Divine Providence. Among the last prophets, Zechariah’s prophecies often revolve around the era of Moshiach and the events that will happen in the festival of Sukkot.

This prophecy is brought in Zechariah 14:16-17: “Then everyone who is left of all the nations that came against Jerusalem shall go up from year to year to worship the King… and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles.” Traditionally, the Feast of Tabernacles is a Jewish festival. However, the prophecy says that in the Messianic era, all nations will bring burnt offerings to the Third Holy Temple in Jerusalem.

Presently, Noahides individuals are not obliged to observe the commandment of dwelling in the Sukkah. This festival is not a religious obligation for them, as they are prohibited from creating a new religion apart from the Seven Noahide Laws. Although nowadays non-Jews are not bound by this commandment, should they choose to sit in the Sukkah for the sake of reward, they may do so, but not as a religious commandant. (The divine code chapter 3:3)

The prophecy of Zachariah says that nations that have repented from their past ways will converge on Jerusalem each year during Sukkot to worship G-d and partake in the celebration of this holiday. Those nations that heed this call and come to Jerusalem will be blessed with abundant rainfall, ensuring the fertility of their crops. Conversely, those who neglect this order will experience a lack of rain, impacting their fields.

In this vision of the future, nations put aside their conflicts to unite in worship and celebration of the holiday of Sukkot. It brings a future of global peace, unity, and spiritual harmony, this can only be realized under the guidance of King Moshiach. At its core, this prophecy is setting the stage for huge revelations of the coming redemption.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe.