בס”ד
A THOUGHT ABOUT PARSHAT BAMIDBAR 5785
What Bnei Noach Can Learn
Introduction
The Torah teaches us not only about the Jewish people but also about the universal role that Israel and the nations of the world play in G-d’s plan. For Bnei Noach—the non-Jewish nations who observe the Seven Noahide Laws—it is important to understand their relationship with Israel and how they can contribute to the Messianic future.
Israel: Teacher and Keeper of the Torah
In the Book of Numbers 2:22, G-d instructs Moses to arrange the twelve tribes of Israel around the Tabernacle.
| The children of Israel shall pitch by their fathers’ houses; every man with his own standard, according to the ensigns; a good way off shall they pitch round about the tent of meeting. | ב אִישׁ עַל-דִּגְלוֹ בְאֹתֹת לְבֵית אֲבֹתָם, יַחֲנוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל: מִנֶּגֶד, סָבִיב לְאֹהֶל-מוֹעֵד יַחֲנוּ. |
This arrangement was symbolic: Israel stands around the Torah, the spiritual core of their nation. By studying the Torah and fulfilling its commandments, Israel “activates” this Divine power. Israel is the vessel through which G-d’s blessings flow into the world.
But what does this mean for the nations?
The Responsibility of Bnei Noach: Learning the Noahide Laws
Maimonides Mishneh Torah, Laws of Kings and Wars Chapter 8, Halacha 10. teaches us that Moses commanded that all the peoples of the world should accept the Noahide commandments—universal laws that form the foundation for ethical and moral living. By learning and observing these laws, Bnei Noach helps prepare the world for ultimate redemption.
The Jewish people have an active role in teaching and guiding the nations in this process. This is not secondary but an essential part of preparing for the coming of the Messiah.
The Future World: Perfect Harmony Together
In his Mishneh Torah (Hilchot Melachim 12:1), Maimonides describes a time in the Messianic era when the entire world will be corrected to serve G-d together. This includes both Israel and the nations, living in peace and harmony—no theft, no destruction, but united in the knowledge and worship of the One G-d.
This vision is grounded in the prophecy of Isaiah 11:9:
| 9 They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain; for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the L-RD, as the waters cover the sea. | ט לֹא-יָרֵעוּ וְלֹא-יַשְׁחִיתוּ, בְּכָל-הַר קָדְשִׁי: כִּי-מָלְאָה הָאָרֶץ, דֵּעָה אֶת-ד’, כַּמַּיִם, לַיָּם מְכַסִּים |
Maimonides quotes this verse directly as the foundation for his description of the future redemption. According to this vision, the light of the Torah, carried by Israel, will radiate outward, illuminating and uplifting the nations. The nations of the world will not be passive observers, but active participants in the divine mission of perfecting creation, fulfilling the words of the prophet.
Israel’s Light Illuminates the Nations
As Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (the Alter Rebbe) explains in Tanya, the additional light revealed to Israel in the future will also shine upon the nations, removing their spiritual darkness. Many prophecies speak of the nations walking in Israel’s light.
This means that Israel’s spiritual growth will have a universal impact, inviting all peoples to share in this new reality.
What Does This Mean for You as Bnei Noach?
- Learn and observe the Noahide Laws: This is your foundation for living a just and ethical life and your role in the coming world of peace.
- Be open to learning from Israel: They have received the Torah as a guide for the whole world. Their spiritual growth brings blessings to all.
- Work together to improve the world: Together, we build a world of justice, peace, and knowledge of G-d for everyone.
Conclusion
The future promised by the Torah is one of universal harmony. Israel’s study of Torah and fulfillment of commandments activates a force that will also enlighten the nations. As Bnei Noach, you have an honored role in this process—by embracing justice and ethics, you help build a better world. This is not just a vision for the future but an invitation to take part today.
By Angelique Sijbolts
With thanks to Rabbi Tuvia Serber for the feedback
Sources
Daily Wisdom of the Lubavitcher Rebbe Volume 3 p. 276
Likutei Sichot Balak p. 183
See also: HOW TO BECOME A CONSIOUS NOAHIDE
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