MODESTY FOR NOAHIDES

בס”ד

In Judaism, the concept of “tzniut,” often translated as “modesty,” extends beyond just clothing. The Hebrew term “הַצְנֵעַ לֶכֶת” (ha-tznea lechet), found in Micah 6:8, literally means “to walk modestly.” 

Micah 6:1 

8 It hath been told thee, O man, what is good, and what the L-RD doth require of thee: only to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy G-d

ח  הִגִּיד לְךָ אָדָם, מַה-טּוֹב; וּמָה-ד’ דּוֹרֵשׁ מִמְּךָ, כִּי אִם-עֲשׂוֹת מִשְׁפָּט וְאַהֲבַת חֶסֶד, וְהַצְנֵעַ לֶכֶת, עִם-אֱלֹקיךָ.

This phrase encapsulates the idea that modesty is not merely about outward appearance but also about one’s inner demeanor and interactions with others. As Micah 6:8 states:

“It hath been told thee, O man, what is good, and what the L-RD doth require of thee: only to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.”

This highlights that tzniut involves both external presentation and internal attitude. It’s about living with dignity and humility, not drawing undue attention to oneself, and treating others with respect and consideration.

When applied to clothing, modesty for Noahides involves wearing attire that reflects respect for oneself and others. Here are some key guidelines:

1. Hair Covering for Women: Noahide women are not required to cover their hair. However, married women who wish to express their piety and humility before God may choose to do so. This practice is optional and should be guided by personal and communal standards of modesty.
2. Modest Clothing for Women: Noahide women are encouraged to dress modestly to avoid leading others to inappropriate thoughts or actions. Clothing should cover the torso up to the collarbone, the legs up to the knees, and the arms up to the elbows. This standard helps maintain a respectful and dignified appearance.
3. Avoiding Deception: Both men and women should choose clothing that avoids inciting sinful thoughts or behaviors in others. Modesty means not dressing in a way that could be seen as provocative or enticing.
4. Women’s Clothing Choices: Noahide women may wear skirts, dresses, or pants, provided these garments are not tight-fitting or revealing. Pants should cover the knees even when seated. Clothing should be chosen to avoid intentional provocation.
5. Pants and Tunics: Wearing a tunic over a skirt or pants is acceptable as long as it maintains modesty. Women should aim for clothing that doesn’t draw excessive attention, such as avoiding overly bold patterns. While not a strict rule, subtlety is key.
6. Shoes and Accessories: Noahides have no specific restrictions on footwear, whether high heels, sandals, or other types. The main consideration is that shoes and accessories should be modest and not intended to provoke.

In essence, the goal of modesty is to respect the body and reflect one’s inner values. This involves understanding cultural and temporal context, recognizing that modesty evolves with time and place. The fundamental principle is to show respect through one’s appearance and behavior, fostering a sense of dignity and humility in all interactions.

Door Angelique Sijbolts
With thanks to Rabbi Tani Burton for his feedback

Sources:

The Divine Code by Rabbi Moshe Weiner 4e edition p. 459

AskNoah Forum: How a Noahide Woman Should dress

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