בס”ד
“Do you really believe that the Noahide laws are enough to have a relationship with G-d?”
It’s an honest and often-asked question—especially by Christians who believe, based on the New Testament, that a relationship with G-d is only possible through Jesus.
But from a Torah perspective, the very idea of needing an intermediary to relate to G-d is not only unnecessary—it is theologically unacceptable. The Torah insists on a direct, personal, and unmediated relationship between each human being and their Creator. Introducing a go-between—no matter how revered—is a violation of the most basic tenets of Jewish monotheism.
As such, not only can you have a meaningful relationship with G-d without Jesus—you cannot have one with him or anyone else as an intermediary. Or, better said: you can only have a true relationship with G-d without any intermediary.
This stands in contrast to a common Christian belief, based on verses like John 14:6:
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
From a Torah perspective, this statement contradicts the foundational principle that G-d is One—without division or partnership—and that He is directly accessible to all.
Relationships with G-d Before Jesus
The Hebrew Bible is filled with examples of individuals who had close, personal relationships with G-d long before Christianity came into existence:
- Abraham was called a friend of G-d (Isaiah 41:8).
- Moses spoke with G-d face to face (Numbers 12:8).
- David was described as a man after G-d’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14).
- Others like Noah, Hannah, and Elijah walked with G-d in intimate faith.
If G-d was able and willing to connect directly with people before Jesus, why would that no longer be possible today?
What Does G-d Require for a Relationship?
The Hebrew Bible consistently teaches that a relationship with G-d is built on obedience, love, reverence, and trust. This is not about legalism, but about faithfulness—living in accordance with G-d’s moral expectations.
Here are just a few examples:
- Deuteronomy 11:13 – “To love the Lord your G-d and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul.”
- Exodus 19:5 – “If you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My treasured possession.”
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart… and He will make your paths straight.”
The message is consistent: those who listen to G-d and walk in His ways are welcomed and blessed.
What Does It Mean to Have a Relationship with G-d?
A relationship is mutual. In human terms, that means communication, trust, commitment, and growth. A relationship with G-d involves much the same:
- Speaking to G-d (prayer, meditation)
- Listening to His words (study, reflection)
- Living according to His instructions (ethical obedience)
- Trusting in Him, even without full understanding
For non-Jews, this relationship is founded on the Seven Noahide Laws—universal moral principles given to humanity. According to the Talmud, those who faithfully follow these laws are called Chassidei Umot HaOlam—”the pious among the nations”—beloved and accepted by G-d.
What About Jesus?
In Judaism, Jesus is regarded as a Shituf—a theological “associate” or “partner” with G-d. In traditional Jewish law, belief in Shituf is akin to idolatry, especially when it involves worship or prayer directed toward a being other than G-d Himself.
The Torah states, “You shall have no other gods before Me (al panai)” (Exodus 20:3), affirming G-d’s absolute oneness. The hypostatic union espoused by those who believe in the Trinity is therefore heretical from a Torah perspective. As it is written: “He is our G-d; there is none else” (Deuteronomy 4:35).
The foundational Jewish principle of G-d’s oneness is expressed in Deuteronomy 6:4:
“Hear, O Israel, the Lord our G-d, the Lord is one.”
In Torah law, the concept of Shetuf—partnering some other divine being with G-d—is akin to idolatry, as the verse states, “You shall not have any other gods with Me (al panai).” The hypostatic union espoused by those who believe in the Trinity is therefore heretical from a Torah perspective. As it is written: “He is our G-d; there is none else.”
Introducing any partner or intermediary to G-d compromises that unity.
What Do Halachic Sources Say?
- Maimonides (Rambam) teaches that believing in an independent intermediary—such as Jesus—is a form of idolatry and forbidden even to non-Jews. Rabbi Moshe Isserles (Rema), relying on the Talmudic commentators known as Tosafot, holds that while belief in shituf is certainly not ideal and is prohibited, it may not necessarily place a non-Jew in formal violation of the prohibition against idolatry—provided it does not involve worship.
- However, any form of worship—including bowing, offering sacrifices, or praying to a shituf—is clearly considered idolatry, even for non-Jews. We must clarify that shituf is not permitted for anyone; rather, according to the Rema, mistakenly believing in it may not automatically constitute idol worship for a non-Jew. Nevertheless, a conscientious, believing Noahide would never entertain the idea of shituf.
The Chatam Sofer concludes:
“The prevailing view is that a non-Jew is liable for worshiping the Shetuf in which he believes.”
(Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 156)
Even mentally combining G-d with another entity during worship is prohibited according to Sefer Mitzvot Gadol (SMa”G), regardless of whether the other name is mentioned.
Summary of What’s Permissible for Non-Jews
| Practice | Permissible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Belief in a Shetuf (mentally) | No (But not punishable as idolatry according to Rema | Still from a Torah-view forbidden; possible not liable for punishment if no worship is involved (Rema) |
| Worship of a Shetuf (prayer, offerings, etc.) | No | Considered idolatry, even for non-Jews |
Final Thoughts
- Yes, non-Jews can absolutely have a direct and meaningful relationship with G-d.
- That relationship is grounded in trust, obedience, love, and respect.
- The Hebrew Bible is clear: G-d has always sought to be known and loved directly.
- There is no barrier in the Hebrew Bible that prevents non-Jews from knowing, loving, and walking with G-d—on His terms.
Every human being has direct access to G-d. No intermediary is needed.
By Angelique Sijbolts
With thanks to Rabbi Tani Burton for his feedback
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