בס”ד
For non-Jews, it is important to study and understand the Seven Noahide Laws, including a thorough knowledge of what is allowed and what is not, as well as the reasons and details behind them. Torah study, both the Written and the Oral Torah, provides valuable insights for leading a just and righteous life following G-d’s will. It offers insight into the obligations and exemptions so that non-Jews can fulfill their divine task of making the world a suitable place for G-d’s blessings. It is advisable to study in a comprehensible language, using reliable sources. While following a structured schedule may be helpful, the focus should be on understanding and adhering to the Noahide Laws. It is important to set realistic goals that align with other responsibilities in life.
The Written Torah consists of the Chumash and the other parts of the Tanach, also known as the “Nach,” which includes the prophetic and poetic writings.
The Oral Torah consists of two main parts: the “Mishnah” and the “Gemara.” Noahides are permitted to study the “Mishnah,” but the “Gemara” may only be studied in subjects relevant to the Noahide Laws.
Torah Law sources such as Mishneh Torah by Rambam and Shulchan Aruch by Rabbi Yosef Karo or the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch by Rabbi Shlomo Ganzfried, as well as Jewish commentators like Rashi, Ramban, and Sforno, contain important information about the observance of these laws. A guide and aid in the study are the practical rules based on these many sources, as summarized by Rabbi Moshe Weiner in “Sheva Mitzvot HaShem” and “The Divine Code.” Additionally, “The Noahide Laws” from Yeshiva Shoshanim is a valuable guide.
It is required for a non-Jew to learn what the Torah teaches about the observance of the Noahide laws, as well as other obligations incumbent upon them. However, there are limitations for non-Jews, such as avoiding in-depth Talmudic study. In-depth Talmudic and Midrashic analyses are exclusive to Jews.
However, a devoted Noahide is permitted to thoroughly study THOSE parts of the Talmud that pertain to matters relevant to the observance of the prescriptions in the Noahide Code. The Oral Torah consists of two main parts: the “Mishnah” and the “Gemara.” Noahides may study the “Mishnah,” but the “Gemara” may only be studied in subjects relevant to the Noahide Laws.
Learning Points
- Study the Seven Noahide Laws thoroughly, including what is permitted and what is not.
- Torah study provides valuable insights for living a just and righteous life.
- Focus on understanding and adhering to the Noahide Laws.
- Learn from the Written Torah (Chumash and Nach) and the Oral Torah (Mishnah and relevant parts of the Gemara).
- Consult Torah laws such as Mishneh Torah and Shulchan Aruch, and commentaries such as those of Rashi, Ramban, and Sforno.
- Limit deep Talmudic study, exclusive to Jews.
- Dedicated Noahides may study relevant parts of the Talmud.
- Seeking advice and guidance from a reliable mentor is recommended.
By Angelique Sijbolts
See also the Shiur of Rabbi Tani Burton:TORAH STUDY
The blog: NOAHIDES AND THE ORAL TORAH
Sources:
The Divine Code by Rabbi Moshe Weiner
The Noahide Laws by Yeshiva Shoshanim
Q&A AskNoah.org
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